Canada Day, celebrated annually on July 1st, marks the anniversary of the Confederation of Canada in 1867. It is a day of national pride and celebration, featuring parades, fireworks, and various festivities. Traditionally, this day is marked by the display of red and white clothing, symbolizing the Canadian flag. However, an emerging practice is the wearing of orange, which has become a significant symbol in the context of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. This article explores the reasons behind wearing orange on Canada Day, its historical context, and its role in the ongoing process of reconciliation in Canada.
Historical Context of Canada Day
The Origins of Canada Day
Canada Day commemorates the formation of the Dominion of Canada, which was achieved through the British North America Act (now known as the Constitution Act, 1867). This act united the colonies of Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia into a single federal entity. Initially celebrated as Dominion Day, the holiday was renamed Canada Day in 1982 with the patriation of the Canadian Constitution.
Canada Day Celebrations
Canada Day is typically celebrated with various public and private events, including fireworks, concerts, and gatherings. It is a day of national pride, where Canadians reflect on their country’s achievements and identity. The traditional colors of red and white are prominently displayed, symbolizing the national flag.
The Emergence of Orange as a Symbol
The Impact of Residential Schools
The wearing of orange on Canada Day has its roots in the recognition of the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada, particularly those related to residential schools. Residential schools were government-funded institutions run by Christian churches, where Indigenous children were forcibly removed from their families and communities. The primary goal of these schools was to assimilate Indigenous children into Euro-Canadian culture, often through harsh and abusive methods.
The legacy of residential schools includes a profound loss of culture, language, and identity, as well as physical and emotional trauma that continues to affect Indigenous communities today. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada, which investigated the history and impact of residential schools, played a crucial role in bringing these issues to light.
Orange Shirt Day
The practice of wearing orange to commemorate the experiences of Indigenous children in residential schools began with Orange Shirt Day. This day, observed on September 30th, was established to honor the survivors of residential schools and to raise awareness about the ongoing impact of this painful chapter in Canadian history. The choice of orange comes from the story of Phyllis Webstad, a survivor whose new orange shirt was taken from her on her first day at a residential school, symbolizing the loss of her personal identity and culture.
The Significance of Wearing Orange on Canada Day
Promoting Awareness and Reflection
Wearing orange on Canada Day serves as a powerful tool for promoting awareness and reflection on the history and legacy of residential schools. It symbolizes a commitment to acknowledging past wrongs and fostering a more inclusive and informed understanding of Canadian history. By incorporating orange into Canada Day celebrations, individuals and communities demonstrate solidarity with Indigenous peoples and their ongoing efforts for justice and reconciliation.
Supporting Reconciliation Efforts
Reconciliation is a central theme in the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians. It involves acknowledging historical injustices, addressing their lasting effects, and working towards healing and mutual respect. Wearing orange on Canada Day is a tangible expression of support for these efforts and a reminder of the need for continued dialogue and action.
Encouraging Inclusivity
Canada Day is a time when Canadians from diverse backgrounds come together to celebrate their shared national identity. The inclusion of orange as a symbol of reconciliation broadens the scope of this celebration, recognizing that true national unity involves acknowledging and addressing the historical and ongoing experiences of Indigenous peoples. By wearing orange, Canadians signal their commitment to inclusivity and respect for all cultures and histories.
The Role of Government and Institutions
Government Initiatives
The Canadian government has made significant efforts towards reconciliation, including the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the implementation of the TRC’s Calls to Action, and support for Indigenous-led initiatives. Wearing orange on Canada Day aligns with these government initiatives by promoting awareness and engagement with reconciliation efforts.
Educational and Cultural Institutions
Educational and cultural institutions play a crucial role in shaping public understanding and engagement with reconciliation. Schools, museums, and cultural organizations can use the occasion of Canada Day to educate people about the history and significance of wearing orange, as well as the broader context of reconciliation. This educational component helps to ensure that the symbolism of orange is understood and respected.
The Broader Impact of Wearing Orange
Fostering Community Dialogue
The practice of wearing orange on Canada Day fosters community dialogue about the history and ongoing issues faced by Indigenous peoples. It provides an opportunity for individuals and groups to engage in conversations about reconciliation, share stories, and deepen their understanding of Indigenous experiences. This dialogue is essential for building relationships and advancing the reconciliation process.
Creating Visible Symbols of Change
Symbols like the color orange play a powerful role in visualizing and reinforcing social change. By incorporating orange into Canada Day celebrations, Canadians create a visible symbol of their commitment to reconciliation and justice. This symbolic gesture reinforces the message that reconciliation is an important and ongoing process that requires collective effort and support.
Inspiring Further Action
Wearing orange on Canada Day can inspire individuals and communities to take further action towards reconciliation. This might include participating in educational programs, supporting Indigenous-led initiatives, or advocating for policy changes that address historical injustices. The act of wearing orange serves as a reminder of the need for continued progress and commitment to reconciliation.
Challenges and Criticisms
Ensuring Authenticity
One challenge in adopting orange as a symbol on Canada Day is ensuring that the gesture is authentic and meaningful. It is important for individuals and communities to engage with the history and significance of the color orange, rather than viewing it as a superficial or symbolic gesture. Genuine commitment to reconciliation involves understanding and addressing the underlying issues.
Balancing Celebrations with Reflection
Integrating orange into Canada Day celebrations requires a balance between national pride and reflection on historical injustices. It is crucial that the day remains a time for both celebration and acknowledgment of past wrongs, rather than allowing the symbolic gesture to overshadow the broader context of reconciliation.
See also: What Happens on Canada Day
Conclusion
Wearing orange on Canada Day represents a significant step towards acknowledging and addressing the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in Canada. It serves as a powerful symbol of reconciliation, promoting awareness, inclusivity, and support for ongoing efforts to address the legacy of residential schools. By embracing orange as part of Canada Day celebrations, Canadians can demonstrate their commitment to a more inclusive and respectful national identity, recognizing the diverse histories and experiences that shape the country.
The adoption of orange on Canada Day underscores the importance of continuing dialogue and action towards reconciliation. It is a reminder that national celebrations can and should include a reflection on the past and a commitment to building a more just and equitable future. As Canada moves forward, the symbolism of orange provides an opportunity to honor the experiences of Indigenous peoples and work towards a more inclusive and unified nation.