BONNYVILLE - During the week leading up to Sept. 30, which marked Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, several events were held throughout the Lakeland to remember those who attended residential schools, including those who never made it home.
Local non-profit Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation organized several free community events with the support of community partners and Heritage Canada, and local municipalities.
These events included a Blanket Workshop, a ribbon skirt and vest workshop, a tour of the former Blue Quills Residential School near St. Paul, and a visit to Bonnylodge that included a traditional super of soup and bannock as well as traditional dance performances for residents.
On Sept. 29, Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation organized a teepee teaching and raising with elder Melvin John and an Orange Shirt procession through the Town of Bonnyville.
Several other events took place on Sept. 30, including a a Pipe Ceremony with Elder Irene Pollom, an Orange Shirt Awareness Walk down Bonnyville's main street, followed by a community dinner, speeches and musical and dance performances.