Orange Ribbon Campaign returns in support of Truth and Reconciliation
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City of Red Deer officials say the Orange Ribbon Campaign returns again this year to engage the community in the Truth and Reconciliation journey.
This means Red Deerians are invited to pick up orange ribbons and tie them to a plant or tree in a place that holds significant meaning for them as a gesture of solidarity with the local indigenous community, and an expression of grief for Canada and Red Deer’s residential school history.
“This marks the third year we have made orange ribbons available to the community as part of our efforts to offer Red Deerians opportunities to participate in a journey of reconciliation with the Indigenous community,” said Bobby-Jo Stannard, Community Development Supervisor. “We have partnered with local Indigenous Knowledge Keepers in the Orange Ribbon Campaign to offer people a way to express their grief and solidarity with the Indigenous community.”
Officials note the campaign was developed with consideration for Indigenous traditions, as the colour orange is recognized as a symbol of the loss of childhood innocence, and disconnection from family in Indigenous experiences. It is also common practice in Indigenous cultures to tie ribbons to tree trunks as a memorial marker. City officials say the ribbons are 100 per cent cotton, which is biodegradable and will not harm trees growth.
