Communities prepare Truth and Reconciliation Day events

Communities across Canada are preparing ceremonies, walks and cultural events for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Wednesday, September 30, with events planned in Cape Breton, Metro Vancouver, Montreal, Halifax and Waterloo Region. The annual observance recognizes the impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous people, families and communities. The events described were scheduled for Wednesday; the reports do not confirm that they have taken place. In Cape Breton, gatherings are planned in Membertou and Eskasoni. A walk and barbecue at Malpeltuewey Kinamatnokuom school in Membertou is scheduled to begin at 2 p.m., with a commemorative walk at 3 p.m. In Eskasoni, the Unamaki Residential School Survivors cultural support group plans to light a sacred fire at 1 p.m. at the Eskasoni Healing Gardens, followed by a healing walk to the residential schools monument. Refreshments are scheduled for 3 p.m. at the Nepisi Building. Treaty Day follows on October 1, marking the start of Mi’kmaq History Month; band offices across Cape Breton are expected to be closed for both observances.