National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Ceremony | September 30th, 2022 | 3:00-5:00pm
September 30, 2022 marks the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, 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.
The creation of this federal statutory holiday was through legislative amendments made by Parliament. On June 3, 2021, Bill C-5, An Act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation) received Royal Assent.
The Aurora Cultural Centre event will be co-presented and hosted by Jared Big Canoe, a member of the Chippewa nation from Georgina Island and will take place in Aurora at the Town Park from 3-5 P.M. on Sep.30th 2022. Jared is a singer/songwriter and community advocate whose passion for honouring his culture, passion for his people and his own journey of healing inform and inspire others to learn and advocate for Truth and Reconciliation and at the forefront of this day, to always remember the children
Schedule of On Stage Events | 3:00-5:00pm
Smudging the stage and Shining Waters Ceremonial Drum
Welcome and Land Acknowledgement
Introduction of Jared Big Canoe
Welcome Becky Big Canoe | Opening Prayer and Talk
Jared Big Canoe | Personal Story of Impact from Residential Schools
Opening Song – Shining Waters Drum Group
Performance from a Traditional Dancer
Talk | Jan Beaver
Talk | Diversity in Indigenous Cultures Across Canada – Jared Big Canoe
Inuit Throat Singer
Second Dance Performance
Reflection on the loss of children to Residential Schools with a performance from Jared Big Canoe, “The Children”
Reflection and Introduction to Closing Song | The Walking Out Song/The Traveling Song – Shining Waters Drum Group
Closing Song – Shining Waters and Dancers
Thank You
Healing Card Creation | 3:00-5:00pm
Running concurrently along with the stage activities, guests will be able to participate in the creation of healing cards. Facilitated by Asha Frost, these cards will be collected and brought back to the Chippewa Nation from Georgina Island.
Stick around after the event for more activities brought to you by the Town of Aurora and featuring Kim Wheatley!
Visit https://www.aurora.ca/en/recreation-arts-and-culture/truth-and-reconciliation.aspx for more details.