Siksika Nation Recognizes National Day for Truth & Reconciliation
September 30, 2021, is Canada’s first National Day for Truth & Reconciliation. For years, First Nations people have been advocating for widespread awareness about the history of residential schools in Canada, and for recognition of the indelible marks left on our communities. Many children who attended these schools never made it home to their families. Marking this day as a national holiday is a significant next step towards restored relationships, healing, and reconciliation for the countless residential school survivors, their families, and all First Nations across the country. We look to the future with hope for meaningful action. Today, Siksika Nation recognized the day by displaying “Every Child Matters” banners in the doorways and windows of homes across the Nation, and greeting the sun at 8:00am to pray together in our own ways for all who have been impacted by the history of Residential Schools. A unity run, walk, and ride departed from the Piiksapi Memorial Arbour, and then joined a gathering of community members at the Siksika Nation Administration Park for a commemorative event, including remarks from honourable guests and event organizers, traditional dance demonstrations, and the unveiling of Siksika Nation’s newest basketball courts, featuring the Nation’s Coat of Arms and a stand-up headdress design. COVID-19 public health safety measures were maintained throughout the event, in accordance with Siksika’s current COVID risk level.
