How to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Edmonton

Tansi everyone,

As September 30th approaches, we are taking some time to reflect on what this day means for all Treaty People. This day honours the children and survivors of residential schools, their families and forces us to reflect on the tragedies that took place in this country. This holiday is in conjunction with Orange Shirt Day which was honoured by indigenous peoples until the Federal Government honoured the movement and made it a holiday.

"Every Child Matters" is the message on this day.

Please check in with your neighbour, your friends, your colleagues, they may need some support on this day and the days leading up. If you want to understand the history of these tragedies, attend one of the many gatherings happening in Edmonton that day. Lend your ears and listen to how we can do better moving forward, by honouring the truths of the past.

To date over 1000 graves have been (re)discovered. Graves of children forced into residential schools, taken away from their families, their communities, their medicines, their language in an act of Colonialism. It is expected that 4100-6000 (conservative #) graves will be discovered as the Truth comes to the forefront for all peoples on Turtle Island. The media is not updating the public as these atrocities are unearthed, and so we take action to raise awareness.

Kinanaskamotin Moiastus,

(cr.Blake Jackman)

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a federal statutory day of commemoration, and there are several ways to observe the day in Edmonton.

1. Bissell Centre-September 30th event has dancers and programming. With catered lunch. Starts at 11:30am at 10527 96 Street, Edmonton, AB, T5H 2H6. Can call for more information 780-423-2285.

2. NiGiNan Housing- On Friday September 30th at 09:30 am, we will be honouring this day at Ambrose Place. Please join us as Nathan Pahtayak sings some songs out front of Ambrose Place at 9629 - 106 avenue. Tori Jackson will be joining us and sharing her healing Jingle Dance. There will be a fire if you wish to bring tobacco offerings. After the singing and dancing, Elder Lorette Goulet will be leading a walk to honour this day and the survivors for anyone who chooses to take part. Join Lorette Goulet on her walk for awareness. Come and raise your voice, showcase your resilience. Let the people of Amiskwacîwâskahikan know that this is not ok, it needs to be addressed at all levels of community and government, and we won't let it happen again in the future.

3. 2nd Annual Orange Shirt Day Run/Walk – Every Child Matters - click the event for more information.

4. Calling on Spirit Back - click the event for more information.

5. Root For Trees – National Day for Truth & Reconciliation – Plant Giveaway - click the event for more information.

6. Teaching & Learning Walks - click the event for more information.

7. TELUS World of Science - September 30 - October 2; click TWOS for more information.

8. Kimamow Atoskanow Foundation Presents an Open House - Silver Sage Centre, Sandy Beach, Alberta, from 2pm to 9pm. For more information please contact 1-866-971-7233(SAFE) or 780-967-2997 or info@treeofcreation.ca

9. Bent Arrow Past Present and Future Event - The event in person part is sold out but you can still attend via the Bent Arrow Facebook page.