On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, there are many opportunities to educate oneself and reflect
Alderville First Nation Emblem. Courtesy of alderville.ca
By: Cecilia Nasmith, Northumberland 89.7 FM News
Northumberland County
Local residents have ample opportunity to observe the Sept. 30 Day of Truth and Reconciliation with appropriate learning and reflections.
The Municipality of Port Hope last week announced a visit by Canadian actor, musician and activist Tom Jackson for a program at the Capitol Theatre called Canindian: A Celebration of Truth and a Celebration of Reconciliation.
The Town of Cobourg has included this event in its subsequent press release listing further opportunities to reflect on the history of Indigenous people, to remember the thousands of children forced to attend residential schools, and to understand how all of us can work together to help create a better future.
On Sept. 30, at 2:30 and 7 p.m., the Victoria Hall Concert Hall will screen the film Bones of Crows. Written and directed by Metis playwright Marie Clements, this free film follows the journey of a Cree woman who endured the residential school system and later became a key player in the little-known chapter of code talkers who offered significant assistance to the Canadian Air Force during World War II.
The town also issued a content warning about this film and its difficult moments (such as seeing Indigenous children torn from their families and communities).
“Be mindful of your feelings when watching and reach out for help if needed,” the press release said, sharing the Hope for Wellness Helpline for Indigenous people across Canada (1-855-242-3310).
Also at Victoria Hall that day, informational and historical prompts, as well as conversational pieces, will be stationed in front of the building (at 55 King St. W.) from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This display will be moved into the lobby for the evening.
Visitors are invited to leave messages of reflection on the two orange Adirondack chairs, and to review the reflections of others. Following the event, these chairs will be taken to the harbour and placed near the town's Waterfront Wisdom Pathway, where members of the community are encouraged to stop by to reflect and engage.
The Waterfront Wisdom Pathway is a collection of 26 banners created by Indigenous artists Rick Beaver and Koren Smoke of Alderville First Nation, displayed on waterfront lampposts to bring vibrant expressions of storytelling and tradition, reminding all of our deep connections to the land. The waterfront location was chosen to reflect the cultural and spiritual significance of water in Indigenous life. For more information, visit www.ExperienceCobourg.ca/waterfrontwisdompathway
Meanwhile, north of town Alderville First Nation hosts the Every Child Matters Walk, beginning at 10:45 a.m. at Alderville Health and Social Services (8467 County Rd. 45). Participants will walk north to the Alderville First Nation Community Centre (8913 County Rd. 45), with a bus provided for the return trip. Guests are encouraged to war an orange shirt and stay for a welcome ceremony following the walk.
On Sept. 30, Cobourg's flags will be at half-mast across the town.
In 2023, council passed a resolution to display the Every Child Matters flag permanently in Rotary Harbourfront Park. It flies there permanently not only as a commemoration but also a commitment to remembering the lives lost over the 150 years of the residential school system – the nearest such institution to Cobourg being at Alderville First Nation Reserve.
