Today, George Webster Elementary School came together to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. Students and staff began the morning with a school-wide assembly that reflected on the history and lasting impact of residential schools in Canada, and the importance of honouring Survivors.
The assembly featured moving remarks from residential school survivor Karen Chaboyer, who spoke about her experiences and the meaning behind the message Every Child Matters. She encouraged students to think critically about Canada’s history while recognizing the role they can play in building a more just future.
Five students from the school’s Indigenous Student Alliance led the assembly, guiding their peers through the morning’s program. The students delivered a Land Acknowledgement, highlighted the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, and invited the community to reflect on five key areas where systemic inequities continue to deeply impact Indigenous Peoples: Health, Education, Child Welfare, Justice, and Language & Culture.
Following the assembly, the George Webster ES community gathered outside to raise Every Child Matters flag. The act served as a visible reminder of the school’s commitment to learning, remembrance, and reconciliation.
“Today was a powerful opportunity for our school to listen, reflect, and learn together,” said Principal Sohail Shaikh. “I am so proud of our students for leading the assembly with such courage and compassion, and for reminding us of all of the responsibility we share in ensuring that every child is valued, respected, and cared for.”
As part of the commemoration, students and staff wore orange to honour Survivors and the children who never returned home, and to show solidarity with Indigenous communities across Canada.
To learn more, visit: www.tdsb.on.ca/indigenouseducation