As Canada marks the fifth annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we continue to walk the path forward with reflection, learning and collective action.
While historically referred to as Orange Shirt Day, in 2021, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was officially recognized by the Government of Canada—honouring the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Commemorating this history and the ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital part of reconciliation.
In addition to recognizing this day, Concert Properties continues to take meaningful steps forward, and earlier this year, launched our Reconciliation Action Plan and Indigenous Mapping Guide.
Building on this foundation, over the past month we offered employees a range of opportunities to deepen their understanding of Indigenous culture and history. “Offering resources and activities for our employees is one way we can foster understanding of Indigenous resiliency and the lasting impacts of residential schools,” says Aran Clarke, Chief Corporate Services Officer.
Film screenings such as Reservation Dogs and Red Fever explored Indigenous storytelling, identity and representation in media, sparking thoughtful discussions about how narratives shape perceptions. Employees were also encouraged to join free daily webinars hosted by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
Employees in Toronto and Victoria participated in educational walking tours led by Native Canadian Centre of Toronto and Songhees Tours, respectively. “Our guide Charlie shared his knowledge of Indigenous traditions and history, while also helping us understand the lasting impacts of residential schools on his family and community,” says Kelly Wilson, Senior Vice President, Development. “He embodied the Centre’s values of wisdom, love, respect, bravery, honesty, humility and truth, and we are deeply grateful for his guidance.”
At our Vancouver office, employees came together to play the Potlatch Card Game, an Indigenous-designed activity that shifts the focus from competition to community. “We did our best to not just successfully complete the game together, but also look out for our colleagues’ needs,” shared Eden MacNeil, Change Management Advisor, who led the participants through the game. “It took us a moment to shift our mindset and remember that the group’s well-being comes before our own.”
The culminating event of this year’s program was a presentation from Residential School Survivor and Squamish Nation Councilor Sempúlyan Steven Gonzales. Sempúlyan shared his personal journey of healing and resilience, offering employees a powerful reminder of why this day matters.
As we reflect on this day, we remain committed to reconciliation as an ongoing responsibility—one that guides our work and our relationships with Indigenous communities year-round.
For more information on Concert Properties’ commitment to reconciliation, click here.