As we approach the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation (September 30th) we are reminded that sadly sport and recreation have not always been welcoming, inclusive, supportive, or safe spaces for Indigenous participants. As sport leaders, we have the opportunity to work to change this.
1) Acknowledging the Day – As of 2023 the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation (formerly and still commonly known as Orange Shirt Day) is a statutory holiday in Canada. As we take the day off school/work, let’s take a moment to reflect on the meaning and importance of the day. Here are a few ways sport organizations can recognize the day:
Cancel or planning a special practice, competition or event on September 30th.
Wear orange and remembering that #everychildmatters. (ex. Shirts, jerseys, swim caps, skate laces, shoes, stick/body tape)
Make your social media logos and profile pictures orange for the day/month.
Acknowledge the day on social media through posts and/or sharing educational, informative, and Indigenous content.
2) Incorporating Meaningful Land Acknowledgements – Do you share land acknowledgments at your sports organization? Land acknowledgments let members know that we are working to integrate truth and reconciliation into our sport culture and create inclusive spaces. Learn more about the indigenous lands your organization trains and competes on, and how to make a meaningful land acknowledgment here.
Consider including land acknowledgments in these ways:
At the start of team, parent or board meetings
During pre-game or competition announcements
At special events such as medal/opening/closing ceremonies, award nights, tournaments, AGMs, etc.
On your website and email signatures
3) Indigenous Designs & Artwork – Another way to celebrate Indigenous culture is through art. Have you seen the new CFL Indigenous-designed logos? They are amazing! This is another powerful example of how we can highlight Indigenous culture at our sports organizations. Consider hiring a local Indigenous artist for your next logo project:
Logo updates
Creating a special edition logo
Tournament, skills camp, conferences, or event logos
4) Coach Education & Training – Education and awareness is powerful. As sport leaders (ex. coaches, administrators, board members), let’s take the time to better educate ourselves on the reality of racism and discrimination in sport. Check-out some of these amazing learning opportunities:
5) Celebrating Indigenous Voices – One of the most powerful ways to participate in truth and reconciliation is by listening to and celebrating Indigenous voices. While there are many, many ways to do this, a few examples include following an indigenous athlete/account on social media, reading a book by an Indigenous author, or listening to a podcast with an Indigenous guest.In honour of the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation, the Dare to Care Sporting Change Podcast had released a special podcast episode with Destiny Whitney of the Tsuut'ina Nation. Listen to this powerful, honest, and moving episode here (link coming soon).Let’s celebrate and honour Indigenous athletes, coaches and sport leaders from coast to coast. Check-out the following links to learn more about Indigenous sport history and trailblazers in our communities:
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