The Town of Sylvan Lake has a ceremony planned for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.
The evening will begin with a gathering at Lion's Legacy Park at 6 p.m. followed by a march to the 'Let Them Play' mural in Centennial Park, culture and tourism supervisor Channelle Brooker said.
"A ceremony will then be held at 6:30 p.m. at the mural to honour survivors of residential schools and remember those who never returned home."
Afterward, the event will conclude with a round dance, tipis, and tea at 7 p.m.
"The event aims to bring the community together in recognition of the past and commitment to reconciliation and it will offer a space for cultural learning, reflection, and unity," Brooker said.
Participating in the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an essential step in acknowledging and understanding the history of residential schools in Canada and their ongoing impact on the Indigenous communities, she added.
"By attending this event, community members can show their support for survivors, deepen their awareness of the past, and contribute to the healing process. It is an opportunity to reflect on the significance of reconciliation and work together toward a future built on respect, education, and shared understanding."
The Town of Sylvan Lake actively engages with local Indigenous communities to incorporate their voices in town events and initiatives to honour the path of Truth and Reconciliation.
"We've worked closely with Indigenous leaders to ensure cultural sensitivity and inclusion in programs such as our National Day for Truth and Reconciliation event, as well as throughout other public events and educational initiatives," Brooker said.
Ongoing collaboration and education is key to sustaining this progress moving forward, she added.
"Steps such as further integrating Indigenous perspectives into our planning processes, expanding educational opportunities for residents, and fostering meaningful relationships with Indigenous partners will continue to guide our reconciliation efforts."
Truth and Reconciliation Day is a solemn reminder of the injustices experienced by the Indigenous people and an opportunity to reflect on the collective responsibility to acknowledge these truths, Brooker said.
"It is also a day to commit to taking meaningful actions toward healing and strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities. The day represents not only remembrance and reflection but also a call to continue learning, growing, and fostering a more inclusive and respectful community."
All community members are encouraged to join in to participate.
"Wearing an orange shirt symbolizes our commitment to honouring survivors and ensuring that these stories are never forgotten. The event is family-friendly and open to all, offering a chance to reflect, learn, and come together as a community," she said.
More information on the Town of Sylvan Lake's plans for the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation can be found on the Visit Sylvan Lake website, visitsylvanlake.ca/signature-events/.
