National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Strathcona County

On September 30, Strathcona County is inviting the community to wear orange and recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR) with Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers and presenters. The program will be held at Festival Place from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and smudging will begin at 1:30 p.m., prior to the formal program. The legacy of Justice Murray Sinclair, who passed away in November 2024, will be honoured throughout the program, including by keynote speaker, singer-songwriter Phyllis Sinclair.

NDTR is a day to honour the children who never returned home and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. Public commemoration of the tragic and painful history and ongoing impacts of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.

NDTR is an outcome of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action and is vital to rebuilding our relationships with Indigenous communities, furthering our learning and growth, creating a safe, supported and connected community, and implementing the TRC Calls to Action.

Strathcona County is committed to each of these actions, and part of that commitment is hosting the public commemoration which is informed and guided by working with Indigenous community members.

Activities include bannock sampling, complimentary hot chocolate, tea and coffee, connection with Native Counselling Services of Alberta and Family and Community Services, and an Honour Walk around Broadmoor Lake Park in memory of the children who never returned home and survivors of the residential school system. Strathcona County Library will also share an Indigenous reading list.

For more information, visit strathcona.ca/IndigenousConnections.

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