SIPEKNE’KATIK: The community will gather on Wednesday, September 30, to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, with a full day of ceremony, cultural teachings, family activities and opportunities for reflection.
The day’s events begin at 10 a.m. with an Honour Song by Sacred Flight and an opening prayer by Mary Lou Bernard.
Opening remarks will follow from Chief Michelle Glasgow, with guest remarks from Regional Chief Andrea Paul, Ursula Johnson and Kody Blois, MP.
Brian Knockwood will deliver closing remarks before the community gathering moves into an open mic session at 11:30 a.m., where community members can share experiences and place flags.
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A complimentary BBQ lunch will be served at noon, with cultural teachings continuing throughout the afternoon.
Activities include Waltes with Mary Lou Bernard and Wanda Julian, a presentation by Dr. Roger Lewis and a Dream Catchers session.
Children and families are also invited to take part in a series of hands-on activities, including Talking Sticks, Medicine Bags and Dream Catchers.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation provides an opportunity for the community to come together to remember the children who never returned home from residential schools, honour survivors and families, and continue the work of learning, understanding and reconciliation.
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Schedule of Events
Main Events
- 10:00 a.m. — Honour Song by Sacred Flight and Opening Prayer by Mary Lou Bernard
- 10:15 a.m. — Opening Remarks: Chief Michelle Glasgow
- 10:30 a.m. — Guest Remarks: Regional Chief Andrea Paul
- 10:45 a.m. — Guest Remarks: Ursula Johnson
- 11:00 a.m. — Guest Remarks: Kody Blois, MP
- 11:15 a.m. — Closing Remarks: Brian Knockwood
- 11:30 a.m. — Open Mic: Sharing Experiences & Placing Flags
Complimentary BBQ Lunch
- 12:00 p.m. — Lunch
Children’s Activities
- 11:45 a.m.–12:30 p.m. — Talking Sticks
- 12:45–1:30 p.m. — Medicine Bags
- 1:45–2:30 p.m. — Dream Catchers
Cultural Teachings
- 12:00 p.m. — Waltes with Mary Lou Bernard and Wanda Julian
- 1:00–1:45 p.m. — Presentation by Dr. Roger Lewis
- 2:00–2:45 p.m. — Dream Catchers
