Welcome to CIWA’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Initiatives
At CIWA, we are committed to fostering understanding, healing, and reconciliation within our community. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed annually on September 30th, is a day to honour the children who never returned home and the survivors of residential schools, along with their families and communities. This day, also known as Orange Shirt Day, serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing impacts of the residential school system and the importance of acknowledging this painful history.
Why This Day Matters to CIWA and Our Community
At CIWA, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is more than just a moment of reflection; it is a call to actively engage in building a more just and inclusive Canada. This day holds particular significance for us as an organization dedicated to supporting newcomers and creating a sense of belonging for all.
By embracing the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, we commit to:
Learning and Education
As newcomers to Canada, it’s essential to understand the history of the land we now call home. Learning about the legacy of residential schools and the experiences of Indigenous Peoples deepens our understanding of Canada’s cultural and social landscape, helping us build bridges of empathy and awareness.
Supporting Healing and Reconciliation
At CIWA, we acknowledge the injustices of the past, and by doing so, we contribute to the ongoing process of healing and reconciliation. As a community, we can advocate for a more equitable and inclusive society, where the voices and experiences of Indigenous Peoples are not only heard but honoured.
Fostering Community and Belonging
Our participation in Truth and Reconciliation efforts strengthens our collective sense of belonging. By engaging with this day, we foster solidarity and contribute to a more united community where newcomers and Indigenous Peoples can find common ground in their journeys toward healing and understanding.
Activities at CIWA
Our participation in the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation underscores the collective responsibility to address historical wrongs and work towards a better future for all. Check out the initiatives at CIWA in honour of Truth and Reconciliation:
Exploring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: Information Sharing Sessions
Program: Family Resource Network
Description of the Event/Title:
From September 23 to 27, staff from the Family Resource Network will be discussing the importance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation during group and individual sessions with clients, families, youth, and caregivers. This is an opportunity to share knowledge, reflect on its significance, and inform our families about the meaning of this day while promoting community engagement by highlighting local events.
The Confluence Stories: Indoor Experience
Program: LINC and ELL
Description of event/activity:
This activity offers opportunities for participants to learn the truthful histories of the city of Calgary and Western Canada, with fascinating stories that reveal how the past connects to us today. An indoor presentation is given to participants, followed by a guided walk through the Confluence exhibits. It’s a great experience for newcomer English language learners to have a better understanding of the land and history of the place they call home now.
Field Trip “Confluence Historic Site”
Program: Pebbles in the Sand
Description: Students can enjoy indoor experience of a 30-minute presentation in the Burnswest Theatre and a 30-minute guided walk through the exhibits.
Indigenous Awareness Workshop
Program: NFNG
Description of event/activity: On September 18, participants will engage in a two-hour Indigenous Awareness Workshop led by CIWA’s Civic Engagement Program. This workshop will delve into the rich culture and history of Canada’s First Peoples, providing essential insights for newcomers. The goal is to foster respect, understanding, and unity with Canada’s Indigenous communities.
Indigenous Awareness Workshop
Program: Everyday English for Seniors
Description of event/activity: Clients participated in a 2.5 h workshop led by our internal Civic Engagement program, in which clients learned about the recent history of the Indigenous People of Canada and why reconciliation is essential.
Indigenous Awareness Presentation
Program: Civic Engagement
Description of event/activity:
In celebration of Truth & Reconciliation Month, the Civic Engagement Program is collaborating with the LINC program to educate clients about the history of Canada and Truth and Reconciliation. About 28 to 30 clients are expected to participate in the event.
Field trip to “All My Relations Healing Powwow”
Program: NFNG
Description of event/activity: On September 28, NFNG participants will attend the second annual “All My Relations Healing Powwow.” This event serves as a gathering for all nations and community members to celebrate, participate in, and learn about Indigenous culture and traditions. Attendees will witness traditional dance competitions, music, and drumming performed by authentic Indigenous dancers from Alberta and beyond. This field trip offers a unique opportunity to experience the vibrancy and depth of Indigenous culture, as well as its profound connection to the natural world.
Participate in Community Events
- Sept 28th: Closer to Home – All My Relations Healing Pow Wow
- Sept 29th: Calgary Public Library -Orange Shirt Day: Film Screening of Bones of Crows
- Sept 30th: Calgary Public Library -Orange Shirt Day: A Conversation with Michelle Good
- Sept 30th: City of Calgary – The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland
- Sept 30th: CIF Reconciliation Society – Pokaiks- ‘The Children’: Commemorative Walk and gathering
- Sept 30th: Arts Commons – art gallery tour and artist talk