On September 30, 2021 BCIT will join public services, post-secondary’s, businesses, and organizations across the country in recognition of the federal National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. September 30 has long been known as Orange Shirt Day, a campaign founded by residential school survivor Phyllis Webstad.
In observance of this day, all full-time classes and most part-time classes are cancelled for September 30. Owing to the accelerated nature of some BCIT programs, a very small portion of part-time Thursday evening classes that are not able to be re-scheduled will proceed. Part-time students will hear directly from their instructor if their class will proceed.
Kory Wilson, Executive Director of Indigenous Initiatives and Partnerships at BCIT says, “Reconciliation is the work of all in the post-secondary system — indeed of all Canadians. It’s about having the courage to challenge the status quo, and to re-envision education and the type of society we share. Consider what you can do to make your part of the world better, partner in Reconciliation, and seek a world where all voices are heard, honoured, valued and incorporated.”
BCIT encourages all students, staff, and faculty to use this day to reflect on Truth and Reconciliation – committing to learning, advocacy, and championing of diversity in our community.
- Follow BCIT Indigenous Initiatives for weekly information and resources on how to recognize and reflect on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
- The BCIT Indigenous Awareness course is available at no cost, and aims to promote an increased understanding of Indigenous people and their place and space in Canada, past and present.
- Familiarize yourself with the BCIT An Indigenous Vision document – a framework for action and accountability introduced in 2019 which supports BCIT’s ongoing commitment to Indigenous learners.
- Learn more about BCIT Indigenous Initiatives and join us for events, webinars, or Book Club.
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BCIT is located on the unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), səl̓ilwətaɁɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), and xwməθkwəy̓əm (Musqueam) First Nations. BCIT has been educating and inspiring students for over half a century on their traditional lands and for that, we are grateful. We acknowledge that the relationship with Indigenous peoples in Canada has been troubled and must be reconciled; we are deeply committed to working with our partners to address these issues.