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.
“Beginning in 2020, orange ribbons have been available during September as part of The City of Red Deer’s efforts to offer opportunities for Red Deerians to participate in a journey of reconciliation with the Indigenous community,” said Bobby-Jo Stannard, Community Development Superintendent. “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.”
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.
The ribbons are 100% cotton, which is biodegradable and will not harm trees growth.
A limited number of orange ribbons can be picked up, free of charge, from the following locations:
- City Hall, 4914 48 Avenue
- Collicutt Centre, 3031 30 Avenue
- H. Dawe Community Centre, 56 Holt Street
- Intermediate School, 5205 48 Avenue
- Recreation Centre, 4501 47A Avenue
When tying to trees or other plant life, residents should ensure the plant is not damaged or hindered by the ribbon.