Reconciliation activities aplenty in Saskatoon
- EFN Staff | May 20, 2017
The City of Saskatoon, Office of the Treaty Commissioner, Saskatoon Tribal Council, Central Urban Metis Federation Inc., along with 54 supporting organizations, have launched a month-long series of activities to promote Reconciliation in Saskatoon.
The 58-member initiative, known as Reconciliation Saskatoon, joined together to further a citywide conversation about the process of Canadian reconciliation, provide opportunities for transformative experiences at events, and inspire citizens to engage in calls to action.
“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action called on all of us - First Nations, leadership, organizations, everyone - to step up. Reconciliation is a heavy task and it takes more than a village to make it happen,” said Saskatoon Tribal Council Chief Felix Thomas. “The organizations and people that are part of Reconciliation Saskatoon prove that working together helps us move forward. Let’s keep this momentum up and one day reconciliation won’t just be a goal, but an achievement.”
In 2015, Saskatoon committed to responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s calls to action, with a proclamation by City Council on June 22, declaring 2015-16 the Year of Reconciliation. In addition, the City committed to working with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner and other community groups, leaders and institutions in Saskatchewan, to promote reconciliation in our province.
“I see tremendous work underway in our community toward Reconciliation. People from many walks of life are reaching out to one another, making commitments to learn more about the impact of Residential schools and our colonial history, and to building stronger relationships toward the future,” said Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark. “Reconciliation is a journey that we can each take. It recognizes that our diversity gives us the strength we need to for a sustainable and prosperous future. I hope to see you at the many great events planned to bring us together as part of reconciliation.”
This year’s month-long schedule of activities will give Saskatoon residents an opportunity to explore the meaning of reconciliation and answer the calls. Events kick off with a flag raising on May 25th and include an Aboriginal awareness session, presentations by residential school survivors, powwows and other community events. The schedule will culminate in the second annual “Rock Your Roots” Walk for Reconciliation in Victoria Park on June 21, National Aboriginal Day. Last year, 3,000 people attended the event. Organizers expect more than that this year.
“Reconciliation and answering the calls to reconciliation is about building community, building relationships and committing ourselves to making a better world for our children, grandchildren and those to come, to feel safe and respected. We invite everyone to join us June 21, 2017 as we walk to show our solidarity in answering the calls to action,” said CUMFI President Shirley Isbister.