Often called Orange Shirt Day, inspired by Phyllis Webstad’s personal story shared in 2013, September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Actions we take today – whether observing what September 30 signifies, attending an event, or donating resources to Indigenous organizations and charities – are the first step toward reconciliation. Having a platform as a leader in recycling in British Columbia, along with eight other stewardship agencies, founded the First Nations Recycling Initiative in 2018, creating a project specifically relevant to Indigenous communities who are interested in starting recycling programs.
On the road, Recycle BC team member Tim Jones visits communities across the province to provide information and guidance for recycling options available through the nine stewardship agencies that are part of the Initiative. This includes providing resources to organize local collection events making it easy and convenient for these communities to divert materials from landfill, and for the participating programs to responsibly manage the collected materials.
The photos below are from some of Tim’s latest journeys including visits to Heiltsuk Nation, K’ómoks First Nation, and Osoyoos Indian Band. We invite anyone reading our post to join the Recycle BC team in quiet reflection today and to continue forward on the path of reconciliation.