Recognition of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Message from the Mayor

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an important opportunity to have meaningful conversations and learn more about the painful legacy of the residential school system that affected hundreds of thousands of Indigenous peoples across Canada. It is a day to recognize the devastating impacts the system had and still has on Indigenous communities, and to reflect on the ways we can all work toward reconciliation. Only through acknowledgement, education and action can we move forward and begin to heal.

Here are a few ways to participate locally on Saturday, September 30, as well as some resources to read and watch at your own pace:

• Attend the Commemoration Ceremony with the shíshálh Nation from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Residential School Monument site in Sechelt behind Raven’s Cry Theatre at 5555 Sunshine Coast Highway.
• Participate in the Orange Shirt Walk that will take place after the Commemoration Ceremony from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.
• Visit the Sunshine Coast Museum and Archives to explore the Kwekwinmut Pieces of the Past stone tool exhibit, co-curated with the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation. There is free admission on Saturday, September 30.
• Watch the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation video, from the shíshálh Nation.
• View archival photos and read the history of the Sechelt Residential School, which was operated by the Catholic Church from July 28, 1904 to June 30, 1975.
• Read about the history of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) in the Gibsons area.

Visit the Town of Gibsons website for more Indigenous-centred materials to watch, read, explore or listen to: Truth and Reconciliation Day – Town of Gibsons

We acknowledge the strength and resilience of our Indigenous neighbours and friends and stand in solidarity with them as we work towards reconciliation and healing.

On behalf of Council,
Mayor Silas White