September 30, 2021 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities.
For those wanting to learn more, the University of Alberta offers a free, self-directed, 12-lesson course from the Faculty of Native Studies that explores Indigenous histories and contemporary issues in Canada. Click here to register.
Trish from The Stratford Public Library has put together a list of books to help young readers understand these important stories shared by Indigenous authors at the library. Great way to continue to educate ourselves and continuing to listen.
The Town of St. Marys has a variety of events happening.
From 7:30 a.m. to approximately 5:00 p.m., a sacred fire will burn at the north end of Milt Dunnell Field. A Sacred Fire is lit to honour Creation, to give thanks and to offer an opportunity for personal reflection. The fire will be tended by local indigenous educator Patsy Anne Day and is free for anyone to participate.
There will also be a variety of local and handmade Indigenous crafts available by donation to the Indian Residential School Survivors Society.
At 4:00 p.m. at Milt Dunnell Field, volunteers are planning a family art activity, with the St. Marys Public Library and Indigenous author S.P. Joseph Lyons, Indigenous education advocate, Author, Speaker, and Novelist. Â
Andrea Macko, Events Coordinator for the Town of St. Marys tells us more.
