September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation as well as Orange Shirt Day. On this day we take time to honour the lost children and survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. We acknowledge the tragic and painful history of residential schools and their lasting impacts, while committing to reconciliation.
There are several events around Calgary to honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and many ways to participate. You can attend an online or in person event, review and commit to the 94 Calls to Action, purchase and wear an orange shirt from a local Indigenous creator, read a book written by an Indigenous author, support a local Indigenous business or organization, dive into further education about Indigenous ways of knowing, and honour the land that we reside on.
We’ve put together a list of events happening to honour National Day for Truth and Reconciliation here in Calgary.
EVENTS
The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation Virtual Lunch and Learn Sessions
“This year, the NCTR will offer a series of FREE virtual lunch and learn sessions throughout Truth and Reconciliation Week 2023 to facilitate learning for Canadians on topics related to Truth and Reconciliation. These daily lunch sessions (50min) will feature a range of speakers and will provide audience members with the opportunity to ask questions and engage in further conversations.”
When: September 25th – 29th; Every day from 11:30 am– 12:20 pm
Where: Online
More information: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/truth-and-reconciliation-week-2023-public-lunch-and-learns-tickets-704876573807?aff=oddtdtcreator
City of Calgary – Orange Shirt Day 2023
“The City of Calgary hosts the Orange Shirt Day event to commemorate residential school victims, honour survivors and their families and commit to reconciliation. Wearing orange is strongly encouraged to show support.”
When: September 30th, 9:00 am
Where: Fort Calgary, 750 9 Ave SE
More information: https://www.calgary.ca/events/orange-shirt-day.html
Elder’s Story Project – Art Commons
“During this powerful event, Elders will share their personal stories about their residential school experiences and their healing journeys, while demonstrating the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples and the power of their traditional practices.”
Tickets are free / by donation, with all donations going to the Elders Story Project
When: September 30th, 7:00 pm
Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall
More information: https://www.artscommons.ca/whats-on/elders-story-project
NFB Film Screenings
“Arts Commons thanks the National Film Board for providing the opportunity to screen films that provide insight into Indigenous history, culture, and traditions, to celebrate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.”
There are two screening times, and films shown will be: “Honour to Senator Murray Sinclair”, “Keepers of the Fire” and “Inconvenient Indian”. Tickets required – films are free or by donation to Arts Commons.
When: September 30th, 10:30 am or 2:30 pm
Where: Engineered Air Theatre
More information: https://www.artscommons.ca/whats-on/ndtr
Reconnection, Reconciliation and Resilience 2023
“This event is an opportunity to discuss the effects of residential schools and their legacy and is open to the public. It will include a ceremony with Elder presence and teachings, and a drumming performance from The Stardale Girls Drumming Group. Additionally there will be a screening of an original film created by Stardale Women’s Group. Refreshments will also be served and a selection of Indigenous Owned Businesses will be showcased as part of the event.”
When: September 30th, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: Grace Presbyterian Church, 1009 15 Avenue SW
More information: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/reconnection-reconciliation-and-resilience-2023-tickets-647194424947?aff=ebdssbdestsearch&keep_tld=1
Four Winds Indigenous Market and Showcase
“Join us for a celebration of Indigenous art and culture at the Indigenous Makers Market, curated by Four Winds YYC The Makers Market will feature the creations of Indigenous artists and artisans from around Treaty 7 and beyond, as well as live performances.”
When: September 30th, 12:00 pm – 6:30 pm
Where: Jack Singer Concert Hall Lobby
More information: https://www.artscommons.ca/whats-on/4-winds-market
Pokaiks – The Children Commemorative Walk & Gathering 2023
“Pokaiks – The Children Commemorative Walk and Gathering 2023 is a tribute to survivors of the Residential School System and Sixties Scoop, held annually on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.”
When: September 30th, 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: The Walk starts at Calgary City Hall and goes to Shaw Millenium Park
More information: https://www.cifrs.ca/events-1/pokaiks-2023