The end of the month is fast approaching and with it, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

This year, just like those before it, September 30th will be a day reserved for learning, showing the Indigenous community support and honouring the many children forced to enrol in the Canadian residential school system.

How and where can you observe this important event in Calgary? Here are just a few ways that you can participate in 2023.

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Orange Shirt Day at Fort Calgary

 

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This year, Calgarians are encouraged to wear orange and take in two free walking tours of Fort Calgary Park as well as complimentary admission to the museum,  family-friendly crafts and a screening of the film Bones of Crows with guest speaker Michelle Thrush.

When: Saturday, September 30th, 2023
Where: 750 9 Avenue Southeast, Calgary
Time: 10 am – 5 pm

Honouring The Children

Featuring an artist residency and exhibit, workshops, and an interactive community art project, Honouring the Children is meant to recognize the lost children and survivors of residential schools and will be open to the public for an entire month. If you’d like to attend the exhibit you can do so between 11 am and 6 pm, Thursdays through to Saturday at the address below.

When: All September long
Where: De Waal Block, 36 4 St NE, Calgary, AB
Cost: FREE

The Children Commemorative Walk and Gathering

Held on the 30th, the Pokaiks 5th annual walk and gathering will be held in alignment with Orange Shirt Day and, of course, National Day for Truth & Reconciliation. Those looking to participate are asked to meet at City Hall at 11 am and are encouraged to wear orange.

When: Saturday, September 30th, 2023
Where: Calgary City Hall, 800 Macleod Trail SE, Calgary, AB
Time: 11 am

Harmony Through Diversity and Art

Featuring four pieces of work from seven artists for a total of 28 panels, Southcentre and Colouring it Forward present the ‘Harmony Through Diversity and Art’ exhibit. Located in the Sporting Life Court, each work will represent personal experiences, as well as interpretations of Indigenous culture and the ongoing process of reconciliation. Check it out!

When: Until September 30th, 2023
Where: 100 Anderson Road SE, Calgary

Shop Indigenous-owned Businesses  

If you haven’t already taken the time to find some local Indigenous-owned businesses in your community, September 30th should be the day. From food, clothing and jewellery – here are just a few Indigenous-owned companies you should check out right now.

For more, you also visit the Shop First Nations database, which provides a more extensive list divided by industry and location.

As always, it’s important to note that nothing will ever truly make up for everything the Indigenous community has gone through, but it’s necessary that we try, so please – do what you can.

For more information about how Canada is commemorating the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, you can visit their website here or to read more you can read more about the movement, you can do so here. After all, change doesn’t work unless you do!

Curiocity Staff

With a curated slate of what matters in your city, Curiocity presents you with the most relevant local food, experiences, news, deals, and adventures. We help you get the most out of your city and focus on the easy-to-miss details so that you’re always in the know.
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