Fleming encourages July 1 to be approached as a Day of Reflection and Acknowledgement
Peterborough ON – (June 21, 2021) – Canada Day is approaching and given the recent confirmation of mass graves of Indigenous children across the country and the rising numbers of confirmed victims who did not survive the Indian Residential School System, Fleming College has decided to cancel Canada Day celebrations this year as a sign of respect and solidarity with Indigenous peoples.
June is National Indigenous History Month, and Fleming is using this time to raise awareness and celebrate Indigenous peoples. The College encourages Canadians to use July 1s this year as a day of reflection and acknowledgement.
We understand that Canada as a nation is experienced differently by different people. This is also true for Indigenous peoples and communities. Our intent is not to undermine the positive experiences, as Canada is a place of refuge, inclusivity and safety for many. However, we must honour our collective truth that this nation has been built on Indigenous lands and at the expense of the loss of Indigenous culture, traditions and lives. As a postsecondary institution, we are committed to Truth and Reconciliation, which includes reflecting on our past and owning our truth.
This is a solemn time for grieving and reflection. Staff and students are encouraged to consider what it means to be Canadian and live within Indigenous territories. Ask questions, reflect and seek resources. Students and staff who require support or are interested in learning more, should get touch with Indigenous Services at Fleming and explore the courses and resources available.
Miigwech (thank you) for your support. It is through these acts of support and solidarity that we will begin to reimagine and rebuild a stronger Kanata for all.
About Fleming College
Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 80,000 alumni.
For more information, please contact:
Amar Shah
Communications Officer
amar.shah@flemingcollege.ca
705.749.5530 x 1370
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Peterborough Sutherland Campus 599 Brealey Dr. Peterborough ON K9J 7B1 Ph: (705) 749-5530 |
Lindsay Frost Campus 200 Albert St. S., Box 8000 Lindsay ON K9V 5E6 Ph: (705) 324-9144 |
Haliburton Haliburton Campus P.O. Box 839 Haliburton ON K0M 1S0 Ph: (705) 457-1680 |
Web: flemingcollege.ca
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