Coming together for Truth and Reconciliation
91做厙 will mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day with a day of reflection and learning on Wednesday, Sept. 30.
While the University will be closed and there are no classes on September 30, students, faculty, staff, families, and the wider community are invited to come together on campus for a series of events focused on learning, cultural teachings, reflection, and conversation.
Truth and Reconciliation is an ongoing responsibility one that calls on us to listen, learn, and take action, says Dr. Ian Sutherland, President and Vice-Chancellor. September 30 is an opportunity for the University community to come together in that work."
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day are observed annually on September 30. The day honours Residential School Survivors, their families, and communities and recognizes the lasting impacts of Canadas residential school system. The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by many Indigenous children in residential schools and serves as a reminder that Every Child Matters.
At 91做厙, this work includes recognizing that Reconciliation, Indigenization, and Decolonization are distinct yet interwoven obligations.
These commitments are part of the Universitys broader strategic direction and ongoing work to create a community where Indigenous ways of knowing, being, and doing are increasingly reflected in learning, research, and the life of the campus community.
October 1 also marks the beginning of Mikmaw History Month, providing an opportunity to continue learning about Mikmaw history, culture, knowledge, and experiences. Building this understanding is an important part of meaningful reconciliation.
Every Child Matters flag raising
Tuesday, Sept. 29 | 11 a.m.
Outside the Owens Art Gallery
The University community is invited to wear orange and gather for the raising of the Every Child Matters flag outside the Owens Art Gallery on Tuesday, Sept. 29 at 11 a.m.
A day of reflection and learning
The University will be closed on September 30, though all members of the University and wider community of Tantramar are invited to attend activities on campus throughout the day. No registration is required to attend the events; all are welcome.
The programming is organized to provide opportunities for learning from Indigenous knowledge keepers, explore cultural teachings and materials, engage with stories of Indigenous experiences, and reflect on the ongoing work for truth and reconciliation.
Community Talk and Cultural Teaching
Wednesday, Sept. 30 | 11 a.m.12 p.m.
Indigenous teaching and learning space behind Colville House
Rain location: Tweedie Hall
Join Mikmaq knowledge keeper Junior Peter-Paul, a member of Elsipogtog First Nation, and Nicole Porter, 91做厙 Indigenous Student Support and Mikmaq Cultural Coordinator and Knowledge Keeper from Fort Folly First Nation, for a cultural teaching and knowledge-sharing session.
This family-friendly community gathering offers an opportunity to learn about Indigenous cultures, ways of knowing and cultural practices. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore materials and artifacts shared by the knowledge keepers.
The session will include teachings and knowledge related to furs, sacred medicines, smudging, quillwork, baskets, and more.
Lunch available at Jennings Dining Hall
Those attending events on September 30 are welcome to visit Jennings Dining Hall for lunch. The cost of lunch at Jennings is $12.18 + tax.
I AM GITXSAN film screening
Wednesday, Sept. 30 | 13 p.m.
Crabtree Auditorium
Join us for a screening of I AM GITXSAN. The film follows Phoenix Apperloo, a recent high school graduate reconnecting with his Indigenous heritage in Hazelton, BC. Inspired by encounters with residential school survivors, he writes a heartfelt letter to Prime Minister Trudeau about the injustices faced by his people.
I AM GITXSAN has received 33 international awards to date, making it one of the most widely recognized Indigenous documentaries to emerge from Canada in recent years. .
The screening will be followed by a Q&A and discussion guided by Nicole Porter, Indigenous Student Support and Mikmaq Cultural Coordinator and Mikmaq knowledge keeper Junior Peter-Paul.
The film is recommended for audiences aged 13 and older. Children under 13 should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
KAIROS Blanket Exercise
Thursday, Oct. 1 | 1 p.m.
Tweedie Hall
Join the KAIROS Blanket Exercise on the first day of Mikmaq History Month. RSVP to indigenous@mta.ca.
More events throughout the academic year will be shared on mta.ca/indigenous.
