College observes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
Medicine Hat College (MHC), Miywasin Friendship Centre and the Firekeepers Women’s Society, are hosting their third annual community event in support of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.
The outdoor event will be held at the Medicine Hat campus between 2-4 p.m. and will include a walk* for reconciliation, story sharing led by Indigenous Elders, a blanket ceremony, honour song, and round dance.
Nicki Eastly, student services specialist for MHC’s Indigenous engagement and student supports, says National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day to bring awareness and acknowledge the pain and trauma caused by residential schools.
“Our people and communities are still experiencing the impacts of residential schools and this event honours the survivors and the children that did not come home,” says Eastly. “National Day for Truth and Reconciliation emphasizes opportunities for change. It is a reminder of how far we have come and the work that still needs to be done."
Eastly, along with other mental health professionals from the community, will be present at the event to offer support to event attendees.
The public event will be held outside the campus’ main entrance and participants are encouraged to dress for the weather, bring a lawn chair, and wear an orange shirt in solidarity with Orange Shirt Day, recognized on the same day.
*The full walk is 1.5km in length, but a shorter, alternate route will be available.