September 30, 2024
On this Orange Shirt Day, we come together to honor the survivors of residential schools and remember those who never made it home. This day is a solemn reminder of the continuing impact these institutions have inflicted upon First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities.
We must acknowledge the stark realities faced by Indigenous peoples today. The life expectancy of First Nations people remains significantly lower than that of the general population, a disparity rooted in historical and ongoing systemic inequities. This gap in life expectancy is a direct consequence of inadequate access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities, compounded by the intergenerational trauma of colonization.
In 2015 in Alberta, the life expectancy of a First Nations man was 67 and a First Nations women was 73. By 2021 there was drop of 7 years for a First Nations man (60 years) and First nations women (66 years). In comparison the life expectancy across Canada for a non-First Nations man is 79 and for a non-First Nations woman is 84. That is a difference of 19 and 18 years. Such shocking statistics that go unnoticed and ignored. There were no national statistics on First Nations life expectancy for 2021 that could be compared.
Read more: Shocking First Nations’ lifespan data, The Niagara Independent, Sept 15, 2023
Moreover, the overincarceration of Indigenous women is a critical issue that demands our attention. Indigenous women represent 50% of the federal inmate population for women yet make up only 2.5% of the population in Canada. In Saskatchewan we have seen this number as high as 90%. Indigenous women are vastly overrepresented in the criminal justice system, often as a result of systemic racism, and ableism, poverty, and the legacy of colonial policies. This overincarceration not only deteriorates family and community well being but also perpetuates cycles of trauma and marginalization.
On this day, let’s commit to meaningful action and reconciliation together. We must work towards a society where Indigenous people can experience equal opportunity, free from the shadows of the past. By speaking about these critical issues, we honor the spirit of truth and reconciliation.
Every Child Matters.
- Evelyn Huntjens, Director of Indigenous Initiatives at DAWN Canada
About Orange Shirt Day
Orange Shirt Day, recognized on September 30th, is a day of remembrance and action to honor the survivors of Canada’s residential school system and to mourn the children who never returned home. Inspired by the story of Phyllis (Jack) Webstad, who, at six years old, had her bright orange shirt taken away upon arriving at a residential school, this day represents the lasting trauma and cultural erasure faced by Indigenous peoples through these institutions.
For DAWN Canada, Orange Shirt Day is an opportunity to reflect on the systemic inequities that persist today, including those disproportionately affecting Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people. These include barriers to safety, justice, and economic security, which are part of the ongoing legacy of colonization.
By recognizing Orange Shirt Day, DAWN Canada stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities, calling for meaningful reconciliation and collective action to address these intersecting injustices. Together, we must ensure that no community is left behind in the pursuit of equity and justice.
