On Friday, September 30, 2022, the Municipality of Port Hope will observe the second annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with planned initiatives and activities to mark the day.
“This week we pause and reflect on the importance of Truth and Reconciliation, the calls to action brought forth by the Commission, and the historical circumstances that brought about this important National Day of Recognition and Remembrance,” states Bob Sanderson, Mayor of the Municipality of Port Hope. “Establishing a day of observance helps to ensure that public commemoration of First Nations, Inuit and Métis history and the legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process.”
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was formally established as a federal holiday in Canada in 2021. It honours the lost children and survivors of Canada’s Indian Residential School System, along with their families and communities.
To mark the day, the Municipality has raised the Every Child Matters flag at Town Hall starting Monday, September 26 for a week until October 3. Additionally, staff are assisting and Council is participating in a special event with the Dibaajimowin Cultural Centre, which is taking place in Memorial Park on September 30. The event is free to attend and includes the sharing of indigenous culture through stories, dance, and ceremony and a sacred fire. Please note that Port Hope Fire and Emergency Services has granted special permission to allow for a fire to take place in Memorial Park.
Additional commemorative activities and initiatives are also taking place throughout the County. Residents may find resources and information available on our website.
For our younger residents, the Port Hope Public Library is hosting the EarlyON Northumberland Indigenous team for a drumming circle and a reading of 'Phyllis's Orange Shirt' by Phyllis Webstad on Wednesday, September 28 at 10:30 a.m. All are welcome to attend.
A reminder that there are some facility and service closures on Friday, September 30 in observance of the day. Staff have been provided resources and are encouraged to spend time reflecting on and learning about Indigenous culture, heritage, and history and the Indian Residential School System in Canada.
2022-09-26
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