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Brandon Kicks Off Truth and Reconciliation Week with Vibrant Events

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Truth and Reconciliation Week begins on September 25, 2023, in Brandon, featuring a series of events aimed at honoring Indigenous culture and the legacy of residential schools. Activities will be held at the Riverbank Discovery Centre, including a showcase of traditional Indigenous clothing, beading, and music.

The week serves not only as a time for remembrance but also as an opportunity for education. According to Natashia Marion, the Indigenous community co-ordinator with the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council, it is crucial for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous individuals to engage in shared learning. “We’re creating these spaces to listen, learn and grow together,” Marion stated. “So we want everybody to come out, anytime they can.”

Key Events of the Week

The first event kicks off on Monday morning at Brandon City Hall with the hoisting of the survivors’ flag, followed by a ceremonial proclamation from the mayor. Later that day, six tipis will be erected at the Riverbank Discovery Centre, which will serve as the hub for the week’s activities. The evening will feature fiddle music, singing, dancing, and educational sessions with members of the Manitoba Métis Federation.

Tuesday marks the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, also recognized as Orange Shirt Day. The day starts at 07:00 with a sunrise pipe ceremony led by elder Frank Tacan and knowledge keeper Tim Bone. A significant highlight will be the Orange Shirt Day Walk at noon, covering approximately seven kilometers from the Riverbank Discovery Centre to the former residential school site. “We walk to commemorate and honour our survivors,” Marion explained, emphasizing the importance of community connection through this event.

Throughout the week, the grounds will feature an Indigenous artists’ market, with food available from local vendors, including the Indigenous Eats food truck. Marion encourages attendees to engage and ask questions, stating, “Truth and Reconciliation Week is a public, culturally safe space to come and ask questions. Please don’t be shy.”

Interactive Workshops and Celebrations

Additional events on Tuesday afternoon include “Healing by the River” with the Rolling Thunder drummers and a grand entry ceremony. Marion noted, “That’s our most visual. People are invited to join the grand entry. We want everybody there.” One of the more profound experiences is the blanket exercise, an interactive workshop symbolizing the impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples.

On Wednesday, activities will include outdoor programming organized by the Brandon School Division and full moon teachings with knowledge keeper Debbie Huntinghawk. Thursday will introduce a light-hearted event called IndigiVibe Night, aimed at showcasing Indigenous apparel and style. “We want them to come and showcase their style and clothing,” said Shannon Saltarelli, assistant co-ordinator for Truth and Reconciliation Week. Entertainment will feature performances from Julianna Moore, a recent participant on “Canada’s Got Talent,” and local country singer Jesse R. Genaille.

Closing ceremonies are scheduled for Friday at 17:00, followed by a feast provided by the Brandon Friendship Centre’s Ask Auntie program. The week concludes with two events on Saturday: the Sisters in Spirit petal ceremony and pancake breakfast at 09:00 and the “Pulling Together” canoe and kayak event at 13:00, where members of the Indigenous community and the Brandon Police Service will demonstrate solidarity and support.

As Truth and Reconciliation Week unfolds in Brandon, it stands as a testament to the community’s commitment to honoring the past while fostering learning, connection, and understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.

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