BONNYVILLE – The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation brought several powerful and poignant events to Bonnyville, hosted by the Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation.
During the events, Indigenous people and allies dawned their orange shirts to acknowledge those affected by residential schools.
On Sept. 30, A teepee was raised at the Bonnyville Museum grounds at 2 p.m. before an orange shirt walk took place down main street, which was led by the beat of a drum and the marching calls of “No more stolen sisters! No more stolen brothers! We are still here!”
A dinner was later held at the Beaver River Fish and Game Association Hall where attendees enjoyed a meal together that had been prayed over by Kehewin Elder Harry Watchmaker.
Emcee Rosa John held a moment of silence for those affected by residential schools and ushered in an array of speakers and performers including community Elders, Métis dancers, Dene Drummers, and performers from the Kehewin Native Dance Theatre.
John expressed her joy at the intercultural relations that happened during the event.
“The communities used to come together, and they would dance and sing and share stories. For me, that's more of what this is about than anything else. It's the sharing of culture - the sharing of stories, the sharing of music, dance, and food. This is true reconciliation,” said John.
Corita Vachon, event organizer and president of the Lakeland Society for Truth and Reconciliation, offered a land acknowledgment, that honoured both the land and the people who have taken care of it since time immemorial. Vachon spoke about reaffirming commitments and responsibilities, along with improving relationships between nations, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous.
“We acknowledge the traditional knowledge keepers and elders both past and present, and we are grateful for their contributions that helped keep this land beautiful. With humble hearts, we make this acknowledgment, as we work together towards reconciliation,” said Vachon.
Charlene Gadwa, elected official for Kehewin, spoke to the power of educating people about the truth of Canada’s history, and what it could mean for generations in the future.
“We need to move forward. Our ancestors suffered for us, but we can be that change for generations to come,” said Gadwa.
She urged people to not only honour and recognize the atrocities, but to revel in the connection and healing that has happened. “I really felt good today,” said Gadwa.
Gadwa spoke about praying for those affected by residential schools.
“We need to pray for our First Nations people who are struggling. We saw one today when we were walking, and he joined in for a little bit and then he walked off, and I felt so proud for him because he just walked for his Kokum and Mooshum who were in residential school, without even knowing it. That little action brings forward healing for me.”
Town of Bonnyville Deputy Mayor Byron Johnson accompanied by Coun. Kayla Blanchette, attended the dinner, and Johnson delivered a speech on behalf of Mayor Elisa Brosseau and the Town of Bonnyville.
“This day offers us an important opportunity to reflect on our shared history, honour the experiences of Indigenous people, and commit to a future built on understanding, healing, and unity,” said Johnson.
Karen Collins thanked the Creator for bringing such a beautiful day for the event, and said she felt proud about her previous experience with St. Paul’s expression of Truth and Reconciliation, that was geared toward relationship building.
“A lot of what reconciliation is about, is relationship building . . . There are many steps that communities are taking in whichever way that community needs to take their steps.”
Collins was heartened to see another crowd come out in Bonnyville.
“I’m really glad to see this many people come out, and for them to help us celebrate on our collective path to reconciliation,” said Collins.
She reminded the crowd that whatever takes place during the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, it is only a piece of what needs to be happening on a daily basis.
Vachon illustrated this point by reminding the crowd that Indigenous people cannot take off their orange shirts, and tuck the experience away, because it is their daily truth.
