September 30, 2021 marks the first-ever National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities, and marks the tragic and painful legacy of colonialism and the ongoing process of reconciliation

To commemorate the occasion, EC3 and Peterborough's Poet Laureate, Sarah Lewis present two new videos. "Warrior Cry" and "Take Them Home" speak to the painful legacy that colonialism and residential schools have had on this country, and the strength and indefatigable resiliency of Indigenous peoples.

Watch the videos below, and scroll down for more resources around National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

More Resources

Local performing arts presenter Public Energy has released an excellent list of suggestions for more ways you can mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:

• Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre, Niijkiwendidaa and Lovesick Native Women's Association are holding a Sacred Fire from 12 pm to 3 pm tomorrow, September 30. There will be two readings of Phyillis Webstad's book, The Orange Shirt Story, at 12:30 pm and 2:30 pm. Space is limited to 20 people including staff at a time, so they ask that you limit your time and reserve a space with Rebekah, wellness@nogofc.ca.
• Join the Memory, Truth and Justice event at Confederation Park (across from City Hall). This event takes place every Thursday from 4:00pm to 5:00pm. While walking in a circle, each person gathered will read, one-by-one, the actions recommended by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, the names of the missing and murdered women and girls in Canada, and, as they become known, the names of those buried at residential schools. They continue each week where they left off the previous week. When they are done, after many weeks, they will begin again.
• Read and contemplate the 94 calls to action of The Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
• Donate to Indigenous charities (This link includes local organizations, Nogojiwanong Friendship Centre and the Niijkiwendidaa Anishnaabekwewag Services Circle).
• Listen to and watch the CBC's special programming to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.