Ways to observe the National Day for Truth & Reconciliation in Calgary this year

October is fast approaching and so is the 2024 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Calgary and around the country.

This year, like many before it, Monday, September 30th, will be a day reserved for honouring and sharing the stories of children, families and communities, who were deeply affected by Canada’s residential schools.

Here are just a few ways you can commemorate, or support the Indigenous community, on the federal statutory holiday in and around the city.

Honouring The Children

Meant to recognize the lost children and survivors of residential schools, the Annual Pokaiks:The Children’s Commemorative Walk and Gathering Honouring will take place on the 30th and will provide various spaces for performers and speakers of all ages.

When: Monday, September 30th, 2024
Where: Contemporary Calgary
Time: 10 am
Cost: Free

All My Relations Healing Powwow

With over 1,500 people in attendance last year, the All My Relations Healing Powwow will take place again this year—this time, with a larger venue, the new BMO Centre on Stampede Park.

When: Saturday, September 28th, 2024
Where: BMO Centre on Stampede Park; Hall A2
Time: 1 pm – 6 pm
Cost: Free

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Arts Commons

A celebration of Indigenous artists and storytellers, Calgary’s Arts Commons will host several events including a market, gallery tours and artist talks, as well as the Elders Story Project.

When: Monday, September 30th, 2024
Where: 205 8 Ave SE, Calgary, AB
Time: see times above

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Heritage Park

This year, Heritage Park in Calgary will honour a day for Truth and Reconciliation by hosting a special day of programming across the park.

Guests will be encouraged to take part in immersive activities, learn from residential school survivors, and take steps towards reconciliation.

When: Sunday, September 29th, 2024
Where: 1900 Heritage Dr. S.W. Calgary
Time: 9:30 am – 5 pm
Cost: $34.95

Orange Shirt Day at The Confluence

This year, Calgarians are encouraged to wear orange and take in free programming such as walking tours, complimentary admission to The Confluence Cultural Centre, a letter writing activity, and film screenings.

When: Monday, September 30, 2024
Where: The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland – 750 9 Avenue Southeast, Calgary
Time: 10 am – 5 pm
Cost: Free

Shop Indigenous-owned Businesses  

From food, clothing and jewellery – here are just a few Indigenous-owned companies you should check out on September 30th and all-year round.

• The Beauty Block – 1409 Edmonton Trail #102, Calgary
• Moonstone Creation – 1219 10 Avenue SE, Calgary
• Pawticular – Where: 2515 90 Ave SW, Unit 149, Calgary
• Land of Daughters – Online here
• Omisimâw Wellness – Online here

For more, you can 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 to try.

For more information about how Canada is commemorating the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, you can visit their website or to read more you can read more about the movement, you can do so here.