Georgina unveils new ‘Every Child Matters’ crosswalk at ferry dock

Yorkregion.com
May 30, 2022

Together with the Chippewas of Georgina Island, the town unveiled one of two “Every Child Matters” crosswalks.

The orange crosswalk bedecked with white feathers and the words “Every Child Matters” read in both directions spans across Black River Road from the Island View Business Centre to the Georgina Island ferry dock.

The crosswalk was designed to bring awareness that all children matter and that adult survivors of residential schools continue to heal from the trauma.

“This is the first crosswalk in Georgina honouring residential school victims and survivors,” said Mayor Margaret Quirk.

“Our partnership with the Chippewas of Georgina Island is important to us. They are our close neighbours and friends.”

The town is also planning to install another “Every Child Matters” crosswalk in the summer at Black River and Dalton roads.

In 2021, communities across the country commemorated the inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation -- Sept. 30 -- as a day to honour the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities.

Georgina council also approved creating and erecting two identical plaques -- one on mainland Georgina and one on Georgina Island, reading in both English and Ojibway -- as a permanent reminder of those tragic events.