On September 30, New Gold observed the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation—a time to remember the survivors of residential schools and to support reconciliation between Canada and the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada. New Gold was honoured to support the Truth and Reconciliation Committee with a $10,000 donation, reinforcing the company’s commitment to healing and education. The committee works in the months leading up to September 30 to plan events and activities commemorating the day.
“The planning committee, represented by twenty agencies, deserves accolades for their hard work in honouring our residential school survivors,” said Sherry Sinclair, Indigenous Community Advisor with New Gold’s Rainy River Mine and planning committee member.
At the mine site, staff shared Indigenous teachings and participated in community-led events. Across the company, Every Child Matters shirts designed by Darryl Big George of Anishinaabeg of Naongashiing First Nation were distributed. The design features a bear, symbolizing protection, and four circles representing the seasons, directions, and nationalities. Orange Shirt Day posters were displayed onsite, sharing the story of Phyllis Webstad and the meaning behind the movement.
Sherry Sinclair from New Gold participated in a moving community Sunrise Ceremony held at the Indian Residential School Monument, led by Elder Josephine Wood of Anishinaabeg of Naongashiing First Nation (Big Island). An awareness walk followed, guided by All Nations Drum, with speeches from Survivors and a gathering at Agency One land. Lunch was served, and Honour Songs were rendered to recognize the courage of Survivors and families connected to St. Margaret’s School in Fort Frances and across Canada. Ceremonial giveaways were held in remembrance of the children lost and in honour of the Survivors. Their stories and memories deserve to be remembered so this dark chapter in our history never happens again. New Gold was honoured to participate and remains committed to support reconciliation efforts and remembrance.
Submitted by Sherry Sinclair
