MRHA recognizes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30, 2026
On September 30, the Mississippi River Health Alliance
joined communities across Canada in recognizing the National Day for Truth
and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.
The day honours the children who never returned home from
residential schools, Survivors, their families and communities, and recognizes
the lasting and intergenerational impacts of the residential school system.
Staff, physicians and volunteers gathered at Carleton Place
& District Memorial Hospital, Almonte General Hospital and Fairview Manor
for brief ceremonies that included remarks and a moment of silence.
Canada flags across the MRHA were lowered to half-mast in
remembrance, while Lanark County Paramedic Service paramedics marked the day by
wearing orange epaulettes.
In 2025, the MRHA permanently raised Anishinaabe Flags at
its hospital and long-term care sites. The flags remain on display throughout
the year as a visible expression of respect and recognition.
During this year's gatherings, President & CEO Brad
Harrington encouraged those attending to continue learning about the history
and ongoing impacts of residential schools and to listen to the experiences and
perspectives of Indigenous Peoples.
“A flag is a symbol. Reconciliation requires more than
symbols. It begins with truth: understanding the history of residential
schools, listening to the experiences and perspectives of Indigenous Peoples,
and recognizing that this history continues to affect individuals, families and
communities today.”
As part of this year's recognition, the MRHA Diversity,
Equity and Inclusion Committee also shared educational resources focused on
cultural safety and cultural humility:
Cultural Safety: Respect and Dignity in Relationships
— Watch
on YouTube
What is Cultural Humility? — Watch
on YouTube
For the MRHA, September 30 is an opportunity to remember and
reflect, while recognizing the importance of continued learning and listening —
particularly within healthcare and in the communities we serve.
Every Child Matters.
Support is available: The National Indian Residential
School Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day at 1-866-925-4419.