Cobourg invites residents to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
By West Northumberland Independent staff
The Town of Cobourg is inviting residents to reflect on the history of Indigenous people by participating in a variety of activities on Wednesday, Sept. 30.
Cobourg is hosting events to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which is Wednesday.
“The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to reflect on the history of Indigenous people, remember the thousands of children that attended harmful residential schools, and understand how we as allies can help create a better future,” said the town, in a recent release.
“Cobourg residents are encouraged to take the extra step on this very important day to do their part in reconciliation by educating themselves on the history of the land we live on.”
The town said residents can attend a film screening of “Indian Horse” as one activity happening locally. The film is being show at 2:30 and 7 p.m. in the citizen’s forum at Victoria Hall. The 2017 film is an adaptation of Ojibway writer Richard Wagamese’s award-winning novel.
The film follows Saul Indian Horse, an Ojibway boy, who is torn from his family and committed to a residential school in the 1950s, reads the town’s release. At the school, Saul is denied the freedom to speak his language or embrace his heritage and is a witness to abuse by the people sworn to protect him. But Saul finds salvation in the unlikeliest of places – the rink. His hockey talents lead him away from the school to bigger and better opportunities, but no matter how far Saul goes, the ghosts of his past are always close behind, reads the town’s provided description of the film.
Admission is free and open to the public.
The town cautioned that Indian Horse contains mature themes and depictions related to the experiences of Indigenous children and families in Canada’s residential school system. The film, which is rated 14-plus, includes references to and portrayals of racism, colonialism, family separation, cultural suppression, abuse, neglect, grief and trauma. It aims to reveal a painful history, but it can be distressing or triggering for some viewers.
“Be mindful of your feelings when watching and reach out for help if needed.”
The Hope for Wellness Helpline offers immediate help to all Indigenous people across Canada by calling 1-855-242-3310.
Cobourg also invites residents on Sept. 30 to visit the Waterfront Wisdom Pathway, a collection of 26 banners created by local Indigenous artists Rick Beaver and Koren Smoke, of Alderville First Nation.
“The banners, displayed on the lampposts along the Cobourg waterfront, bring vibrant expressions of storytelling and tradition reminding us of our deep connections to the land. The artists intentionally chose the harbourfront location, reflecting the cultural and spiritual significance of water in Indigenous life. Take a walk along the shoreline and explore the stories behind each piece.”
To view the gallery online, people can also visit www.ExperienceCobourg.ca/waterfrontwisdompathway.
The Waterfront Wisdom Pathway has been nominated for the Creative City Network of Canada Impact Awards in the Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility award category.
“This recognition is a wonderful reflection of the collaboration, care and commitment that went into bringing this special project to life, and the meaningful relationships and community impact it has created along the way,” noted town officials.
While visiting the Waterfront Wisdom Pathway, visitors may also notice two orange Adirondack chairs featuring written reflections shared by residents during past National Day for Truth and Reconciliation commemorations. Visitors are encouraged to take a moment to read the reflections, pause and consider what Truth and Reconciliation means to them.
Also on Sept. 30, residents can join Alderville First Nation for the Every Child Matters Walk starting at Alderville Health and Social Services (AHSS), which is located at 8467 County Rd. 45 in Roseneath. Participants will meet at 10:45 a.m. with the walk starting at 11 a.m.
Attendees will walk north to the Alderville First Nation Community Centre, and a bus will be provided to return to the AHSS building.
“The walk is open to everyone to honour and raise awareness (about) what Orange Shirt Day represents while encouraging Canadians to answer the Calls to Action for Truth and Reconciliation.”
Guests are encouraged to wear an orange shirt.
Also on Wednesday, flags across the Town of Cobourg will be at half-mast.
In 2023, Cobourg council passed a resolution to permanently display the Every Child Matters flag on the flagpole in Rotary Harbourfront Park.
“The flag permanently flies not only as a commemoration but also a commitment to remembering Indigenous lives that were tragically lost within the residential school system, which spanned over 150 years, with the nearest such institution to Cobourg being situated in the Alderville First Nations Reserve.”
Victoria Hall will also be lit orange on Sept. 30 in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
In addition, the Cobourg Public Library is recognizing Indigenous voices and stories through a variety of book displays throughout the library. The library has also introduced a new orange feather sticker, which is placed on materials written by Indigenous authors to help readers discover and explore these works.
Comments