September 30 holds profound significance in Canada, marking the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day is a powerful reminder of the painful history of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the urgent need for truth, reconciliation, and healing.
Honoring Truth, Reconciliation, and Community
Reeves College invites all staff and students to commemorate this day. This event promises to be a deeply meaningful experience as we come together to learn, reflect, and take action.
Our Calgary City Centre campus is observing this day through a special event featuring one of our students.
Event Details:
Date: September 30, 2023
Time: 9am – 11am
Location: Room 420, Reeves College Calgary City Centre
Speaker: Alica Mistaken Chief, a current Reeves Calgary City Centre student pursuing Graphic Design, will deliver a powerful 45-minute speech. It will encompass essential topics such as the recent discoveries of unmarked graves at the Kamloops Indian Residential School, the history of the Orange Shirt movement, and the significance of reconciliation.
Prayer Tribute: We will be honoured with a special tribute following Alica's speech. Alica's father, William Mistaken Chief, will lead an opening prayer and share his thoughts on Residential Schools and what reconciliation means to him.
After the opening prayer, Alica's brother, Brad Mistaken Chief, will perform a moving drum song dedicated to the occasion.
Painting 216 Rocks: During the event, we will come together to paint 216 rocks, symbolizing the 215 children discovered in unmarked graves at the Kamloops Indian Residential School, with the last rock representing the child who may never be found. These rocks will serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of our commitment to truth and reconciliation.
Orange Shirt Design: Alica Mistaken Chief is also designing an Orange Shirt logo, and we will have 25 t-shirts printed with this design, which will be distributed at the event. The orange shirt serves as a powerful symbol of remembrance and reconciliation.
As we come together on National Truth and Reconciliation Day, we aim to foster a deeper understanding of the past, a commitment to healing, and a shared vision of a brighter, more inclusive future. Join us in this significant event as we honour the memory of the Indigenous children and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society.
How Can I Find Out More About The Significance of National Truth and Reconciliation?
You can watch these awareness educational videos to find out more about the day, its history and its significance:
Empowering Indigenous Students:
We are proud to have been a part of Indspire's efforts and vision to enrich Canada through Indigenous education.
Indspire is a national Indigenous registered charity that invests in the education of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people for the long-term benefit of these individuals, their families and communities, and Canada.
Visit the Indspire website to learn how to support Indigenous businesses and be part of this journey towards reconciliation.