Observance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

For Immediate Release
September 19, 2024

Observance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

SOUTH BRUCE, ON – The Municipality of South Bruce invites community members to learn about and take part in National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, which is also recognized as Orange Shirt Day. This day honours the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities impacted by this painful chapter in history.

In acknowledgement of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and to support awareness, education, and action in the community, the Municipality is offering an educational tour to the Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre on Thursday, September 26. The tour will include a visit to the Anishnaabwe Endaat permanent exhibition, as well as the new Indian Day School: The National and Local Story exhibition which features localized components, a photo wall, audio clips and more. This exhibition opened September 16 and was made possible through a partnership between the museum and the Legacy of Hope Foundation, as well as Saugeen First Nation and Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation.

South Bruce community members are invited to sign up for this opportunity by contacting the municipal office ahead of the deadline of September 25 at noon. The tour will include bus transportation from the Teeswater Culross Community Centre, a guided tour of the exhibits and lunch, free of cost for all registered participants. Those who are unable to join the municipal bus tour can still visit the Indian Day School exhibit until November 30.

“The Municipality will continue to promote opportunities to learn about Indigenous history and Truth and Reconciliation throughout the year for South Bruce residents, staff and council members,” said Mayor Mark Goetz. “I look forward to participating in the educational tour and invite the public to join.”

To begin or continue individual learning journeys, the public may wish to visit The Government of Canada website, which provides valuable information on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and other resources to learn about the culture and history of Indigenous peoples.

The Municipality recognizes that this day may be particularly difficult for survivors of the residential school system and their families. Support is available through the National Residential School Crisis Line by calling 1-866-925-4419.

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For more information:

Leanne Martin,
Chief Administrative Officer
lmartin@southbruce.ca or 519-392-6623

To register for the tour:

Steve Travale
Community Engagement Officer
stravale@southbruce.ca or 519-392-6623