Northumberland County Raises “Every Child Matters” Flag

In Community, Local

By Cecilia Nasmith/Today’s Northumberland

Northumberland County has visibly shown its support for Thursday’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

In the run-up to Sept. 30, which county council two weeks ago declared as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Northumberland County, the orange Every Child Matters flag will fly on the community flagpole at county headquarters (555 Courthouse Rd., Cobourg). As well, look for the building to be lit up in orange lights on Thursday evening.

The Federal government has designated September 30 as an annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in response to Call-to-Action 80 in the final report of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission – which calls upon the Federal government, in collaboration with Aboriginal peoples, to establish a statutory holiday to honour residential-school survivors as well as their families and communities.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation builds upon the Orange Shirt Day movement, a day where Canadians wear orange to recognize and raise awareness about the history and legacy of the residential-school system in Canada. It was a gesture made at the September county council meeting, when many of the councillors wore their orange shirts.

This observance grew out of the story of one survivor, Phyllis Webstad, who had her new orange shirt taken away on her first day at a residential school.

“Establishing a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation ensures public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of Canada’s reconciliation process with Indigenous Peoples,” county Warden Bob Crate said in the press release.

“This is a solemn day of reflection about the children, families and communities who were so dramatically affected by the policies and practices of the residential-school system, and the impacts that continue to be felt today. As we mark this first day of commemoration, Northumberland County remains committed to taking meaningful action toward reconciliation and deepening our knowledge of this history, and the history and contributions of the traditional keepers of this land.”

For more information about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, visit
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Canada.ca

Pete Fisher
Author: Pete Fisher

Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love

Join Our Newsletter!

Want to keep up to date on news and events in Northumberland? Subscribe to newsletter!

You may also read!

Update – Breaking News – Person Killed After Being Struck by Train

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyBMZLr7Mx4 Members of the Cobourg Police Service are currently on scene conducting an active investigation in the area of the

Read More...

Breaking News – Emergency Services Attend Rail Crossing in Cobourg

Emergency services were dispatched to the area of the CN Rail crossing on Burnham Street just north of King

Read More...

Video – St. Mary Students Do Their Part to Help Save the Environment

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kp35wXS862Y St. Mary Secondary students brought the classroom to the waterfront on Friday, June 6, 2025 to learn more about

Read More...

Mobile Sliding Menu