The City of Barrie will recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30 with opportunities for community members to gather, learn and reflect. Events are being offered in a collaborative effort between the Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin Primary Care Team of the Barrie Area Native Advisory Circle (BANAC), the Barrie Native Friendship Centre (BNFC), the City of Barrie and the Barrie Public Library.
Sacred Fire and Sunrise Ceremony
Spirit Catcher (25 Simcoe Street) on September 30, 6:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The Sacred Fire and Sunrise Ceremony hosted by the Barrie Native Friendship Centre and Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin will honour all who have been impacted by residential schools. All are welcome to reflect, offer a prayer, share stories, learn and heal together as a community.
- Sunrise Ceremony at 6:30 a.m.
- Sacred Fire until 1 p.m.
- Information Booths
- Guest Speakers all morning 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Memorial Walk 12 – 1 p.m.
Starting at the Spirit Catcher, participants will walk along the water’s edge to Centennial Beach and back to the Spirit Catcher.
Please wear orange if you can, feel free to bring your skirts and hand drums. No registration required. All activities are open to the community, and everyone is welcome.
In 2020, the Canadian Government introduced legislation to establish a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. September 30 provides an opportunity for every Canadian to recognize the impact of the residential school system, learn more about its lasting legacy, and reflect on how we can move forward, together.
For more information, visit barrie.ca/NDTR
