The community came together today at the Georgian Bay Native Friendship Centre in the spirit of hope and healing.
Commemorating National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the event got underway with an opening prayer, land acknowledgement and smudge ceremony.
“We’re here to acknowledge the true history of Canada and to listen to the voices of our community, to speak up for our children, youth and elderly. We want to continue to move forward in that positive direction,” said Curtis Copegog, Beausoleil First Nation and member of Chimnissing.
Residential school survivor Marilyn Corbiere became a voice for the thousands of children who lost their culture, language and family.
“Lots of children were taken away from their parents and families, losing their culture and language. I hope it never happens again,” said Corbiere, who shared her story of being taken from her family and stripped of her culture at four years old and then surviving the horrors of residential schools for 13 years.
Indigenous groups Mixed Tribe, Coldwater Youth Drum Group, and Giiwedin Hand Drummers shared messages of healing and survival through their honour songs, hand drumming while traditional dancers Gavin King, Florence King, and Deserae Monague-Jelley moved through the circle.
Added Copegog: “When we share our stories and our voices, and other members at that table are listening with open ears, we are able to plan for the future and plan for what’s needed today.
“People can show support by continuing to learn and educate themselves, do their own research on the residential school system and how those institutions impacted our families, our communities and our nation.”
