RELEASE: Oilers statement on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

EDMONTON, AB - Oilers Entertainment Group (OEG) would like to take a moment to pause and reflect on the importance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation coming up on September 30, as we honour the memory of the lost children and the survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities.
"We all have a critical part to play in commemorating and honouring the survivors of residential schools," said Bob Nicholson, Chairman, Edmonton Oilers Hockey Club. "OEG is committed to continuing to build off the great work that has already been done to embrace reconciliation and build a strong and positive relationship with our Indigenous community."
During Wednesday's Oilers vs. Winnipeg Jets matchup, both teams will display special helmet decals that will include an orange circle around each team's logo as a subtle gesture to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
For the upcoming 2021-22 regular season, the Oilers will introduce land acknowledgements at the start of every home game, recognizing that the organization lives, works, and plays on the traditional territory of many First Nations.
The Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation is committed to ongoing support of organizations that are doing tremendous work in Indigenous communities in Alberta. Last season, the EOCF held a special Hockey Is For Everyone 50/50, with net proceeds supporting Right To Play and Spirit North, two charitable groups dedicated to using the power of sport and play to help improve the overall health and well-being of Indigenous youth.
For the first time, the Oilers are offering an Indigenous First Shift program starting in October, with a second program being offered in January. The Oilers have also partnered with Enoch Cree Nation and other Indigenous communities across Oil Country over the past several years to create an Indigenous Hockey Academy. The teams are slated to hit the ice during the 2022-23 season in the CSSHL with U15 male and U18 female teams.
OEG is also working closely with local Indigenous artists to create an Oilers-centric Indigenous look and feel for a special celebration during the November 1 game against Seattle. The goal is to weave this creative into the game presentation elements to show the history and culture of the Treaty 6 peoples.
"It is very important for members of the community to take time on September 30 to pause for serious reflection on our country's history as it relates to the legacy and impact of residential schools," said Chief Willie Littlechild, Edmonton Oilers Community Foundation board member.
When asked how Canadians can honour and commemorate this important day, Chief Willie said: "Take the time to educate yourself and listen to the stories about the lived experiences of the survivors; commit to a call to action to advance reconciliation - as it is about having good relations and working together."
September 30 is also Orange Shirt Day, where small gestures such as wearing orange or displaying an orange shirt can have a powerful impact on survivors. On this day, and every day of the year, OEG strives to reinforce its relationship with Indigenous communities across Oil Country.