Squamish Eagles live, learn and play on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territory of the Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation). We are privileged and honoured to bear a logo created by Squamish Nation artist Cory Douglas that honours and celebrates the unique cultural heritage of the community we live in.

We recognize and commemorate September 30 as a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: a day to honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities; a day that serves as a reminder of the painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools.

As a volunteer-led organization, Squamish Minor Hockey Association is at a relatively early stage in our Truth and Reconciliation journey. The Squamish Minor Hockey Association Board of Directors has committed to reviewing the 94 Calls to Action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission as well as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, to identify the steps our organization can take towards decolonization, cultural safety and inclusion of Indigenous children and youth in sport.

With that in mind, we humbly encourage our members to learn, share, and participate in meaningful action toward Truth and Reconciliation to recognize this day.

Here are some suggestions:

• Join Squamish Public Library from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm on Wednesday, September 29 for an online event honouring Residential School Survivors. The event will be moderated by TlatlaKwot Christine Baker and include guest speakers Kiyowil Bob Baker, who attended St. Michael’s in Alert Bay, Chésha7 Gwen Harry, who attended St. Michael’s in Alert Bay, and Humteya Shirley Toman, who attended St. Paul’s in North Vancouver.

• Wear an orange jersey, t-shirt, helmet sticker or bracelet to your practice or game on Thursday, September 30 or any day this week to honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools.

• Attend the Truth and Reconciliation Commemoration Event at O’Siyam Pavilion in Downtown Squamish September 30 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm. This will be a community gathering to honour the Survivors of Residential Schools and those who never made it home. It will also be a celebration of the resurgence and reclamation of ancestral teachings and the resilience of Indigenous Peoples.

• Choose a unique and meaningful way for your family and friends to explore, express or honour Indigenous culture, traditions and history.

We are all learning. May this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation be the first in a generation that fosters the spirit of truth, reconciliation, and action.