The Saskatchewan Roughriders along with the other Canadian Football League teams will be wearing orange jerseys during the warmups of this week’s games in support of Truth and Reconciliation efforts across the country .
“The orange jerseys act as a small symbol of our unwavering dedication to reconciliation in the province,” said Saskatchewan Roughriders President / CEO and Foundation Board Chair, Craig Reynolds. “On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we will reflect on our past but also envision a future where our actions as allies with Indigenous communities reflect genuine understanding, respect and collaboration.”
The Club and the Saskatchewan Roughrider Foundation are actively focusing on Calls to Action #87-92 and 14i as outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Report which focus on Sports and Reconciliation and Business and Reconciliation.
“To reaffirm our promise to be leaders in the province and show our commitment to do more, the Foundation and Club have increased our work with Indigenous communities across the province as well as implemented education and training for staff,” said Roughrider Foundation Executive Director, Cindy Fuchs
With alongside an Indigenous Advisory Group, the team and foundation have undertaken many meaningful acts of reconciliation and continue to provide support.
Some of the initiatives include:
• Celebrating Indigenous culture at the annual kisiskâciwan Game at Mosaic Stadium
• A partnership with the Northern Saskatchewan Football League, providing funding and coaching to students in the province’s north
• Hosting Grow the Game camps with a focus on engaging Indigenous youth in football
• Community BBQ’s and Christmas dinners with organizations serving Indigenous communities in both Regina and Saskatoon
•A commitment to ongoing education for their staff, coaches and players about Canada’s Indigenous history and the importance of Truth and Reconciliation
• Attending powwows and cultural events in Indigenous communities
The Saskatchewan Roughriders Foundation is also bringing back the Orange Jersey Raffle to raise funds for Indigenous sports programs in the province and special events in Indigenous communities. Further details will be announced following tonight’s Roughriders game against the BC Lions.
