To mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, local First Nations, governments, universities and organizations are putting on events on Sept. 27 and 30.
VICTORIA: South Island Powwow
Organized by Songhees Nation with the support of the City of Victoria
Monday, Sept. 30. Gates open at 10 a.m., grand entry at 12 p.m.
Royal Athletic Park 1014 Caledonia Ave.
Free Admission
The annual South Island Powwow is an opportunity to recognize Survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation. The event will begin with a traditional grand entrance by various First Nations. There will be special dancing and drumming performances, Metis fiddlers, Island First Nation dance groups, and guest speakers. More than 80 vendors and multiple food trucks will be set up at the park.
VICTORIA: SNIWWOC presents Truth and Reconciliation at KWENCH
Organized by Support Network for Indigenous Women & Women of Colour
Monday, Sept. 30, 5:30-7:30 p.m.
2031 Store Street
Spots can be reserved on eventbrite.ca
An annual event that brings community members together for an evening of education, togetherness and remembrance. Attendees will learn about the sacred Indigenous practice of Ribbon Skirt making and its significance to the Indigenous community. There will also be testimony from residential school survivors. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
SOOKE: The District of Sooke honours Truth and Reconciliation
Monday, Sept. 30, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Outside the Sooke Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library, 6671 Wadams Way
The event will offer moments of reflection and dialogue, recognizing the Truth and Reconciliation process as essential in acknowledging the injustices Indigenous Peoples have faced. The gathering aims to support the collective journey toward a future grounded in respect and understanding.
COLWOOD: Orange Shirt Day Community Event for Reflection and Action
Friday, Sept. 27, 12:15 to 1:30 p.m.
On-campus, in-person event at 2005 Sooke Rd., Dogwood Auditorium
The Diversity Action Group and the RRUSA invite community members and students to bring their lunch and hear from speakers within the Royal Roads University community, including members of the Heron Peoples Circle. Attendees are invited to wear orange.
SIDNEY: StoryWalk
Sept. 23 to Oct. 8 (weather permitting)
Sidney/North Saanich Branch of the Vancouver Island Regional Library (10091 Resthaven Dr.)
The library is posting a StoryWalk around the library garden pathways, with pages from "I Hope" by local Indigenous author Monique Gray Smith along the path. As people stroll along, they can visit each page to read and reflect on their hopes for all children.
ONLINE/RADIO: A Day to Listen
Presented by Downie & Wenjack Fund
6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Visit downiewenjack.ca/events/truth-and-reconciliation-week-2024/
To commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, DWF is partnering with major media outlets and radio stations throughout Canada. The Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund is part of Gord Downie’s legacy and embodies his commitment, and that of his family, to improving the lives of First Peoples in Canada.
Participating stations in Victoria/Vancouver include CFML, CFAX, CFBT, CFTE-AM, CHBE-AM, CHQM-AM, CKST-AM, and CKKQ-FM.
