September 30th marks the annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day to reflect on Canada’s history of Residential Schools and honour Indigenous children, Survivors, their families and communities.
Working with communities for 20 years, I am continually humbled by my experiences and exploration of Indigenous allyship. Allyship involves a commitment to active practice by non-Indigenous people making ongoing efforts to dismantle settler-colonial systems and supporting Indigenous communities’ self-determination and rights. It involves building meaningful relationships based on trust and accountability and taking action through policies to challenge oppression. Key aspects include actively listening to Indigenous voices, respecting Indigenous cultures and governance and committing reconciliation by working to end systemic inequities against Indigenous peoples in Canada.
It’s not about what you do on one day a year, it’s about what you have done leading up to the day and throughout the year, reflecting and learning. The discussions and discovering of the truth about Canada’s history. The day you put on an orange shirt is the day you acknowledge that you have listened and learned. Instead of relying on “how and where to” lists to support National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, ask yourself where your own values come in? Lean into and be open to being humbled about whatever assumptions or biases of your own may exist.
With clearer intentions and compassion, we open the door for real action and change and ultimately reconciliation.
Laila Adam is Brookline’s Indigenous Relations & Social Responsibility Specialist. Dedicated to building sustainable capacity in Indigenous communities, Laila helps clients build meaningful partnerships by aligning Indigenous values with business objectives through an adaptable, relationship-driven approach.