McKenna, Maple Leafs, show support on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Gavin McKenna arrived to his second career NHL game wearing a special orange t-shirt pin to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and incorporate his Indigenous heritage on Wednesday.

The day of memorial recognizes the distress caused by Canada's residential school system, which for more than a century tore Indigenous children away from their families.

McKenna is a member of the Trʼondëk Hwëchʼin First Nation and his grandfather, Joe Mason, endured the hardships of Canada's residential school system.

Prior to puck drop between the Maple Leafs and New York Islanders at Scotiabank Arena, the Leafs played a short video on the big screen to show the importance of the day.

“The Toronto Maple Leafs recognize the importance of listening, learning and taking action on the journey towards reconciliation and right relations,” said Toronto’s PA announcer said during the brief ceremony. “Tonight, and always, we commit to honoring survivors, their families and communities and using our platform to encourage everyone to learn, reflect and take meaningful steps to advance reconciliation.”