Algonquin College marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Each year, Sept. 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. The day honours the children who never returned home and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Recognition of this tragic history and the ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital part of the reconciliation process.

During the College’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event this morning, Algonquin College President and CEO Claude Brulé, welcomed Niigaan Sinclair, an acclaimed writer, educator, and one of Canada’s leading voices on Indigenous issues, reconciliation, history, and identity. He is the author of Wînipêk: Visions of Canada from an Indigenous Centre.

“It is especially meaningful to welcome Niigaan to Algonquin College,” said Brulé. “In 2021 and 2023, we had the privilege of hosting his father, the Honourable Murray Sinclair, to our Pembroke Campus. Today, we are honoured to welcome another member of a family whose leadership, wisdom, and commitment to truth and reconciliation have helped shape this country.”

Sinclair shared many personal and humourous stories about his father while also addressing critical insights on the history and legacy of residential schools, the meaning of reconciliation, and our collective responsibility within educational institutions today. He called his father a man of many firsts and described him as the first notable Indigenous person many Canadians became aware of.

Close to 100 learners, faculty and guests attended in person and over 70 online marked the day, many of whom attended the event wearing their orange T-shirt in solidarity, honouring survivors and demonstrating the College’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and Indigenization.

“The most competent generation is the one in front of us” Sinclair said when discussing the importance of continuing to talk about Indigenous issues and implementing the Calls to Action.

“If you know Dr. Sinclair’s work as an Indigenous leader, writer, professor, and commentator, you know that he brings a lot of heart to his work,” said Anita Tenasco, Director of Indigenous Initiatives. “He constantly reminds us that Truth and Reconciliation isn’t just some abstract policy or a box to tick. It’s a living practice. It’s hard work, and it starts with the willingness to sit down, listen, and stay in the room together even when the conversations get tough. As a College, we know education has a massive role to play in righting past wrongs and building a better path forward. That’s why hosting these open, honest conversations is at the very core of what we do.”

The event ended with a moving and personal talk from Student Navigator Duran Tolley who shared his personal story and explained how Algonquin College has helped him prepare for his future. He talked of the opportunities he has received at the Mamidosewin Centre, how he appreciates the art, symbols, street names and Indigenous presence on campus and the ongoing support from faculty and staff he receives during his studies.