Truth And Reconciliation
Introduction
Sport has the power to bring people together, build understanding, and create communities where everyone belongs. At Special Olympics Saskatchewan, we are committed to advancing Truth and Reconciliation by learning from the past, listening to Indigenous voices, and creating welcoming, respectful, and inclusive opportunities for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and communities.
Truth and Reconciliation is an ongoing journey. Through education, meaningful partnerships, and inclusive sport, we strive to contribute to a future where everyone has the opportunity to participate, belong, and thrive.
This page provides information, educational resources, and opportunities to learn more about Truth and Reconciliation and its connection to sport.
Through sport, we have the opportunity to build relationships, celebrate cultures, remove barriers, and ensure Indigenous athletes, coaches, volunteers, and communities feel welcomed, respected, and valued throughout Saskatchewan.
Section 1 – Land Acknowledgement
Why We Acknowledge the Land
A Land Acknowledgement is an expression of respect. It recognizes the history of these lands, honours the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples who have cared for them for generations, and acknowledges our shared responsibility to advance Truth and Reconciliation. At Special Olympics Saskatchewan, we are committed to learning, building meaningful relationships, and creating inclusive sport opportunities where Indigenous athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and communities feel welcomed, respected, and valued.
Special Olympics Saskatchewan’s Land Acknowledgement
With gratitude and respect, Special Olympics Saskatchewan acknowledges that we operate on the traditional lands of the First Nations across Treaties 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10, and within the Métis Homeland. We honour the First Nations, Métis and Inuit Peoples who have lived on and cared for these lands since time immemorial and who continue to strengthen our communities today. We are committed to fostering meaningful relationships built on respect, learning, and reconciliation, and to creating welcoming, inclusive sport opportunities for all.
Section 2 - Orange Shirt Day & National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
What is Orange Shirt Day?
Orange Shirt Day is observed each year on September 30 to honour Residential School Survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and recognize the lasting impacts of the Residential School system. It is inspired by the story of Survivor Phyllis Webstad and the message that Every Child Matters.
Why September 30?
September 30 marks the time of year when many Indigenous children were taken from their families to attend Residential Schools. It is also Canada's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to learn, reflect, and honour Survivors, their families, and communities.
Why Special Olympics Saskatchewan Participates
At Special Olympics Saskatchewan, we believe sport brings people together and creates communities where everyone belongs. Recognizing Orange Shirt Day reflects our commitment to learning, building respectful relationships, and creating welcoming, inclusive sport opportunities for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and communities.
Section 3 - Learning & Resources
Truth and Reconciliation is an ongoing journey of learning, listening, and taking meaningful action. These resources are intended to help athletes, coaches, volunteers, families, and community members deepen their understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives. By learning together, we can build stronger relationships, foster respect, and create more welcoming and inclusive sport environments for everyone.
Section 4 - Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission documented the experiences of Residential School Survivors and issued 94 Calls to Action to advance reconciliation in Canada.
Sport has an important role to play in reconciliation by creating welcoming, respectful, and inclusive environments where everyone has the opportunity to participate.
Call to Action #87
Call to Action #87 calls upon all levels of government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, sports halls of fame, and other relevant organizations, to provide public education that tells the national story of Aboriginal athletes in history.