September 30, 2026
WHEREAS Orange Shirt Day grew from the experience of residential school Survivor Phyllis Webstad, whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at residential school; and
WHEREAS the orange shirt has become a symbol of the loss of culture, freedom and self-esteem experienced by Indigenous children and affirms the fundamental message that Every Child Matters; and
WHEREAS the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation honours First Nations, Inuit and Métis Survivors, their families and communities, and remembers the children who never returned home; and
WHEREAS the ongoing effects of the residential school system continue to be experienced by Indigenous Peoples, families and communities across Canada; and
WHEREAS truth-telling, education, remembrance and meaningful action are essential to the continuing work of reconciliation;
NOW THEREFORE, I, Toby Randell, Mayor of the Town of Carleton Place, do hereby proclaim September 30, 2026, as Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in the Town of Carleton Place and encourage residents to wear orange, listen to the voices of Survivors and Indigenous Peoples, learn about the history and continuing legacy of residential schools, and reflect on the actions each of us can take to advance reconciliation.