To mark the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, the Yorkton Tribal Council held an Every Child Matters event.
It started at the Yorkton Tribal Council office on King Street with a walk that ended at City Centre Park. A large crowd gathered for the walk, wearing orange shirts, and some had signs reading “hope”, “love”, and “respect”.
Chief of the Yorkton Tribal Council Isabelle O’Soup this day is significant to her.
“It’s an honour to have this one day recognized for residential school survivors and the legacy (of residential schools), but we have to continue on beyond September 30.” she said.
Following the walk, a lunch was provided at City Centre Park and this afternoon, Indian Residential School survivors will share Stories of Resilience.
“This is how they heal when they talk about their stories, and this is how non-First Nations people get educated when they listen to the stories, it’s a two-way street.” O’Soup said.
Some dignitaries were on hand for the walk, including Yorkton Mayor Mitch Hippsley, and Councillors Randy Goulden and Dustin Brears.
“It’s a tremendous day, it’s the beginning of a whole new day in Canada,” Hippsley said. “It’s long overdue. For us to sit back and accept the truth is the first step, the next step is to continue each day in trying to change our path together.”
The mayor added about two years ago, City Council chose to raise the Treaty 4 flag, in recognition of Reconciliation.
Hipplsey mentioned employees at City Hall are still working today, but have been challenged to take the time to learn what this day is all about.