Brandon Kicks Off Truth and Reconciliation Week with Events

UPDATE: Truth and Reconciliation Week has officially begun in Brandon, with powerful events scheduled at the Riverbank Discovery Centre starting today, September 30, 2025. This week’s activities aim to honor survivors and foster understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

The week kicks off with a significant ceremony at Brandon City Hall at 9:00 AM, featuring the hoisting of the survivors’ flag and a proclamation by the mayor. Organizers are urging everyone to participate, emphasizing the importance of shared learning and reflection. Natashia Marion, Indigenous community co-ordinator with the Brandon Urban Aboriginal Peoples’ Council, stated, “We want everybody to come out, anytime they can.”

Later today, six tipis will be erected at the Riverbank Discovery Centre, marking the center of activities. The evening will showcase traditional fiddle music, singing, and dancing with members of the Manitoba Métis Federation, creating an immersive cultural experience.

Tomorrow, October 1, is the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day. The day will begin with a 7:00 AM sunrise pipe ceremony led by elder Frank Tacan, followed by a solemn Orange Shirt Day Walk at noon. This walk will cover approximately seven kilometers from the Riverbank Discovery Centre to the former Residential School site, symbolizing a journey to honor and commemorate survivors.

Marion encourages community involvement, stating, “We walk to commemorate and honor our survivors.” Attendees can also enjoy an Indigenous artists’ market and food options from the Indigenous Eats food truck, as well as free bannock provided by the Brandon Friendship Centre.

The week’s lineup includes the interactive blanket exercise on Wednesday, which visually represents the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples. Thursday features the new IndigiVibe Night at 5:30 PM, encouraging attendees to showcase their traditional and contemporary Indigenous apparel. Notable entertainers include Julianna Moore, recently featured on “Canada’s Got Talent,” and local artist Jesse R. Genaille.

The week concludes with closing ceremonies on Friday at 5:00 PM, followed by a feast provided by the Ask Auntie program. Additionally, next Saturday will see the Sisters in Spirit petal ceremony and a pancake breakfast at 9:00 AM, alongside the Pulling Together canoe event at 1:00 PM, fostering solidarity between the Indigenous community and local law enforcement.

As Truth and Reconciliation Week unfolds, community members are encouraged to engage, ask questions, and partake in the ceremonies with respect. “Truth and Reconciliation Week is a public, culturally safe space to come and ask questions. Please don’t be shy,” Marion emphasized.

Stay tuned for more updates as the week progresses!