The Wallaceburg Minor Hockey Association is honouring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by wearing orange jerseys throughout the season to remember the children who never came home from residential schools, the survivors, and the families and communities forever impacted.
“Today we wear orange to honour the children who never came home, the survivors, and the families and communities forever impacted,” the association said. “Hockey is more than a game, it’s a community, and our community includes strong Indigenous voices.”
Teams will wear the orange jerseys at home and on the road periodically through the year, beginning in October. The association said the goal is to spread awareness not only in Wallaceburg, but also in the communities they visit.
Walpole Island First Nation is an important part of the Lakers family, with many players, families, and community members having direct ties to WIFN.
“We wear our orange shirts to remember the children who never made it home, and to honour the survivors of Residential Schools, along with their families and communities,” the association said. “Together, we stand in reflection, respect, and commitment to truth and reconciliation.”
The initiative is part of Ojichaag Yindaawin — Spirit of Community — which encourages players, families, spectators and guests to listen, learn, respect and appreciate.
“It’s about more than just one day,” the association said. “Hockey is about more than just what we do on the ice.”
