Lanark County Paramedics don orange epaulettes in support of Truth and Reconciliation
The Lanark County Paramedic Service (LCPS) has found a unique way to express its members’ commitment to Truth and Reconciliation – and raised nearly $1,000 for the cause in the process.
Throughout the month of September, paramedics have been wearing orange epaulettes; they are meant to symbolize solidarity with Indigenous communities and recognize the importance of Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, which honours residential school survivors, their families and the ongoing work towards reconciliation.
“Wearing the orange epaulettes is a powerful symbol of our solidarity with Indigenous communities,” said Travis Mellema, Chief, Lanark County Paramedic Service. “It encourages meaningful conversations and underscores our commitment to reconciliation and supporting Indigenous peoples in our region.”
The orange epaulettes join a series of coloured epaulettes LCPS staff wear annually to support various causes. Each colour represents a different awareness campaign: green in May for Mental Health Awareness, rainbow in June for Pride, pink in October for Breast Cancer Awareness, blue in November for Men’s Health, and red on Fridays to honour Wounded Warriors.
During Truth and Reconciliation campaign, the LCPS raised $964.39, which will be donated to Lanark County Neighbours for Truth and Reconciliation; this grassroots organization dedicated to educating the community about Indigenous histories and supporting reconciliation initiatives. The donation will help fund educational programs and speaker honoraria.
“We are very much appreciative of LCPS’s recognition of the activities of the Lanark County Neighbours for Truth and Reconciliation,” stated Christine Luscombe-Mills, a representative of Lanark County Neighbours for Truth and Reconciliation. “Their generous donation will be used in supporting Indigenous voices and for increasing awareness of local Indigenous history and the impacts of colonization.”
A cheque presentation will take place on Friday, Sept. 27 at 10 a.m. at LCPS Headquarters, with representatives from both organizations in attendance.