4th annual GSPS Truth and Reconciliation Relay

🧡 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Orange Shirt Day 

Today, we honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day – a time for reflection, learning, and collective action. It is a solemn opportunity for Canadians to acknowledge the tragic legacy and enduring intergenerational impacts of the residential school system, and to commit to meaningful reconciliation.

This morning, we marked the conclusion of the 4th Annual GSPS Truth & Reconciliation Relay with a closing ceremony at Bell Park. Over 300 participants from 20 organizations came together this year, united in a shared commitment to truth, education, and healing. We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who took part.

The Relay began in 2022 as an internal initiative at GSPS. In 2023, Constables Anik Dennie and Katrina Pitawanakwat partnered with our Indigenous Liaison Office to expand the program to include community organizations.

The Relay’s purpose is to raise awareness about the history of Residential Schools and to spotlight the 94 Calls to Action issued by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. Participants were invited to watch an educational video, read through the Calls to Action, and select one that resonated with them personally. The relay itself offered a moment of reflection – an opportunity to consider how each individual might bring their chosen Call to Action to life in both personal and professional spheres.

We are especially thankful to our community partners, including Shkagamik-Kwe Health Centre, for helping make this initiative possible. Congratulations to this year’s recognized organizations for accumulating the most participants and collective kilometres:

🏅 Public Health Sudbury & Districts 🏅 Sault Ste. Marie Police Service 🏅 Science North 🏅 St. Charles College

Thank you to all who joined us in learning, reflecting, and walking the path toward reconciliation. Together, we honour the past, understand its impact on the present, and work toward a future rooted in respect, accountability, and healing.