Regina marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with an Honour Walk and community events reflecting on Indigenous experiences.
Community Walk Commemorates Indigenous Experiences
Regina residents gathered Tuesday for the fifth annual Honour Walk for Truth and Reconciliation, a moment to remember the experiences of Indigenous people sent to residential schools. Organized by the Circle Project, the walk emphasizes reflection, remembrance, and the importance of reconciliation within the community.
Ann Perry, executive director of the Circle Project, explained that the event is “recognizing the experience of Indigenous peoples in Canada and the history of Canada with Indigenous people, specifically around the residential schools.” She encouraged community participation, noting that the day is intended for quiet reflection and communal support.
Collaborative Efforts Highlight Reconciliation
This year’s Honour Walk was organized in collaboration with the Co-operators, reflecting a broader community effort to acknowledge the day’s significance. Perry highlighted that while the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not a statutory holiday, the growing turnout signals increased public commitment to understanding Indigenous history and supporting reconciliation efforts locally.
Cultural and Educational Activities Across Regina
In addition to the Honour Walk, several other events took place in Regina. The McKenzie Art Gallery hosted Indian Theater: Native Performance, Art, and Self-Determination since 1969, offering hourly guided tours from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. CST. The Regina Public Library presented a noon session on media and reconciliation, featuring journalist Nelson Bird and cultural performances to encourage reflection and dialogue.
The mâmawêyatitân centre organized a full day of activities beginning with a pipe ceremony at 9 a.m. CST, while the City of Regina encouraged employees to participate in Orange Shirt Day by wearing orange and raised Every Child Matters and Treaty 4 flags at city hall and the Albert Street bridge through Sept. 30. City hall was also illuminated in orange to mark the occasion.
Wanuskewin Heritage Park Observes the Day
Just north of Saskatoon, Wanuskewin Heritage Park hosted a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Gathering. Activities began at 9 a.m. CST and included musical performances, cultural dances, hide-making, and a round dance at 3 p.m. Doug Hyndford, co-executive director of operations at Wanuskewin, emphasized the day’s importance for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to listen, understand, and acknowledge the ongoing impacts of residential schools.
Events Extend Beyond Regina
Commemorative events were also held in Prince Albert. The Prince Albert Historical Museum welcomed visitors from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST with free admission, and the Prince Albert Grand Council hosted programming from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. CST at the PAGC Cultural Centre. Participants were encouraged to wear orange to honor Indigenous children and their communities.
A Moment for Reflection and Action
Across Saskatchewan, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation provided opportunities to reflect on the past while fostering community understanding. Organizers and participants alike emphasized that recognition of historical trauma is a first step toward reconciliation, urging all Canadians to listen, learn, and act in support of Indigenous peoples.
