For this National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, you can show support through a Spirit Walk.
The Spirit Walk is an event coordinated by the MIKI’SIW Métis Association and Indigenous Women’s Sharing Society, dedicated to getting the community educated and to show support to the Indigenous peoples of Canada.
This year’s walk started with ceremonies at the Florence Filberg Centre, which saw many people not only attend, but also go and take part in the walk itself.
Executive Director of the Indigenous Women’s Sharing Society Patti Alvarado says seeing that many people today gives her hope.
“It gives me hope that people are more open to learning the true history of residential schools and the history of colonization in Canada,” said Alvarado.
“It’s definitely a lot bigger this year and seeing this many people wanting to participate is great.”
After the ceremonies, residential school survivors shared their stories and experiences, which Alvarado says was a huge honour having them speak because of how much emotional labour it takes to share those stories.
“You’ll hear the term Truth and Reconciliation but before reconciliation can even happen, the truth needs to be heard and there are still a lot of people that don’t know about residential schools and what happened there,” said Alvarado.
“Having the survivors and elders speak, it really gives people the opportunity to hear the true stories of what really happened.”
She says there are ways you can show support such as learning about the 94 Calls to Action in Truth and Reconciliation, which are policy recommendations to aid the healing process, getting involved in your Indigenous organizations, raise awareness, and involving Indigenous people.
The walk runs throughout the downtown core, where you can grab a map at the Florence Filberg Centre, find educational posters, check out educational booths in the Centre, and see the Every Child Matters Children’s Hearts Garden at Simms Park.
The event runs until 5:00 p.m.
