This Saturday, September 30, 2023, marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation across Canada. The day seeks to honour the children that did not make it home from residential school, the survivors that carry the stories of resilience, and the families and communities that seek to strengthen our communities for future generations. Public commemoration events are being held Nation-wide in recognition of on-going reconciliation efforts between Canada, its citizens, and Indigenous communities.
Here is a list of local events commemorating National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:
-Blood Tribe Department of Health Wellness Program
Orange Shirt Day & National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
September 25 to 27, 2023
MONDAY SEPTEMBER 25, 2023 WELLNESS CENTRE
Morning Smudge and Prayer: In Honor of All Residential School Survivors, Families and Community Members. Lunch 12:00 Noon: Orange Shirt Beading Kits, Toques, Bag Lunch & Kids Candy Bags available to the first 200 community members (one per person)
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 26, 2023 MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING, STANDOFF
Wellness Program Presents: “Ais’poo moo’a nist tooh ko way a” – Celebrating the 100th Day Treatment Program in the Community. Registration – 8:30 AM Program 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Please call to Register: 403-737-3883
WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 27, 2023 MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING, STANDOFF
Wellness Program Presents: Elders Workshop, “We Give Guidance & Direction to Children”, Registration – 8:30 AM Program 9:00 to 3 PM. Please call to Register: 403-737-3883
-City of Lethbridge Reconciliation Week 2023 (See poster for details or visit the Lethbridge.ca website)
https://www.lethbridge.ca/media/imdf0e0p/reconciliation_poster_2023.pdf
-Cardston, Alberta Memorial – National Day of Truth and Reconciliation – September 29, 2023
Time 12:00AM – 12:00AM
Location: Healing Gardens
-University of Lethbridge Truth and Reconciliation Week
Schedule of Events can be found on the University of Lethbridge website:
https://www.ulethbridge.ca/indigenous/truth-and-reconciliation-week
-Lethbridge College Truth and Reconciliation Week
Schedule of Events can be found at the Lethbridge College website:
https://lethbridgecollege.ca/events/truth-and-reconciliation-week
-City of Calgary Truth and Reconciliation 2023 events:
We understand this week’s events can be difficult for some members of our communities. If you or a family member needs help, here are some resources available for your assistance:
-Kainai Wellness Centre
403-737-3883 8:30AM to 4:30PM
Monday to Friday after hours, weekends, and holidays call either the Crisis Line at 403-894-7002 or the Blood Tribe Police at 403-737-3800
-Indian Residential School Resolution Health Support Program
The National Indian Residential School Crisis Line provides 24-hour crisis support to former Indian Residential School students and their families toll-free at 1-866-925-4419.
Individuals impacted by the issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls are encouraged to contact the MMIWG Crisis Line toll-free at 1-844-413-6649.
FNIM seeking immediate emotional support can contact the Hope for Wellness Help Line toll-free at 1-855-242-3310, or by online chat at hopeforwellness.ca.
