Back to News
(Fort McMurray, AB – Sept. 22, 2022) All are invited to join a Community Gathering and Walk to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30.
The gathering will be held at 9:30 a.m. in front of the Municipal Jubilee building. It will start with prayer and a short address before walking to MacDonald Island where there will be light refreshments and an opportunity for more informal conversations.
The Community Gathering and Walk is organized in partnership with the Athabasca Tribal Council, Indigenous governments and communities, as well as the Centre of Hope, the Nistawoyou Association Friendship Centre, the Regional Recreation Corporation, RCMP, and the Wood Buffalo Wellness Society. These partners are also working to host private luncheons on the day in communities across the region to honour Survivors.
“September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and I encourage everyone across the region to pause and reflect on the legacy of the residential school system and the impact it has on Indigenous Peoples and communities, including right here in this region,” said Mayor Sandy Bowman. “It’s important we recognize and acknowledge this on September 30, while remaining committed to listening, learning and taking positive action towards reconciliation each and every day in the months and years ahead.”
"When we gather as a community and when organizations partner to provide support and honour survivors, we make all communities and our people stronger," said Chief Adam, President of the Athabasca Tribal Council. "The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation makes space for people to learn and reflect upon the burden of truth. The burden is no longer held solely by the child survivors. In understanding the truth, we move together as a community toward reconciliation and healing for all."
"ATC is committed to supporting survivors and community members impacted by the residential school system. This community gathering and walk provides an opportunity for the public to show their support for survivors and we are grateful to the partners working together to make the day meaningful," said Karla Buffalo, CEO of the Athabasca Tribal Council. "We understand that many people seek guidance in learning the truth of Indigenous experiences and this is why ATC created the Orange Path website. The website is a curated listing of resources for every Canadian to learn more with options for reading, listening, or watching. We hope everyone will take time to reflect on the past and learn more about what has been hidden from the history books.”
About the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Created in 2021 to recognize the legacy of the Canadian residential school system, it is a day to honour Survivors, their families, and communities. Held in unison with Orange Shirt Day, it is also an important time to listen, learn, and consider the wrongs carried out by the church and governments and the harm that continues to impact Indigenous Peoples and communities.
About the Orange Path
The Orange Path is a movement that helps each person shape their path toward reconciliation. Your journey is unique to you. On the website, you will find tools and resources to start or continue your journey to truth and reconciliation. There are resources for reading, watching, and listening. Learn in the way that suits you best. Check back often as we update these resources often to support everyone’s journey on the Orange Path. Visit https://www.orangepath.ca/ now.
-30-
Media inquiries:
Athabasca Tribal Council:karla.buffalo@atcfn.ca
Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo: media@rmwb.ca
Subscribe