Oakville to commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with events and activities

By: Shazia Nazir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

Oakville will join the rest of Canada on Sep 30 to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day.

This day serves as an opportunity to remember the survivors of residential schools and honour the Indigenous children who never made it home. Various events and activities are planned across the town, allowing residents to reflect on the history of these schools and celebrate Indigenous culture.

“As we approach the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I urge all residents to take the time to reflect on the lasting impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous peoples,” said Mayor Rob Burton.

“This day serves as a reminder of the trauma and oppression faced by generations and the ongoing need for healing and understanding.”

A key event is the travelling exhibition Debwewin: The Oakville Truth Project. It provides an opportunity to understand better the past and present treaty relationships in what is now Oakville. It’s being displayed at Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre on Sept. 21 and 22, the Oakville Museum from Sept. 24 to 27, and the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts (OCPA) on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.

Lions Valley Park will host an event at Knox Presbyterian Church Sixteen on Sept. 28 for those interested in exploring more local Indigenous history. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can learn about Indigenous peoples’ deep connections with the land now known as Oakville.

“At the town, we are committed to taking concrete steps to address the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Through reflection and learning, we can create a vibrant and inclusive community where everyone feels respected and valued,” the mayor added.

On Sept. 30, a full schedule of events will honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. At 10 a.m., a Truth and Reconciliation LIVE session will be held, followed by a gathering and ceremony at the Oakville Museum from 12 to 1 p.m.

The community is invited to a drumming and reflection ceremony at the OCPA from 7 to 7:45 p.m., followed by a performance by Indigenous singer-songwriter Lacey Hill at 8 p.m.

Another cultural event is the Moccasin Identifier activity at Centennial Square, where participants can create a visual reminder of Indigenous heritage.

Oakville residents can also explore the town’s first orange crosswalk at Thomas and Church streets, a powerful symbol of reconciliation. In addition, walking along the Moccasin Trails offers an opportunity to discover Indigenous history, with paths marked along Bronte Creek Heritage Trail and Sixteen Mile Creek Inner Valley. Tannery Park also features a First Nations history wall and Moccasin Identifier, promoting public awareness of significant cultural and historical sites.

In solidarity with Indigenous communities, the Every Child Matters orange flag will be flown at Town Hall from Sept. 26 and lowered to half-mast on Sept. 30. Orange lights will illuminate both Town Hall and the OCPA during the week of Sept. 23 as Oakville reflects on the importance of reconciliation and healing.