The Town of Cochrane invites residents and visitors to a special all-ages community event on September 30, 2024, from 12:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at 'The Station' at Cochrane Crossing. This event, organized in collaboration with Route 22 Artist Collective Gallery, Wazin Ichinabi Ti, Cochrane Public Library, District 4 of the Otipemisiwak Métis Government, and Cochrane Immigrant Services Committee, is dedicated to honoring the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The day will offer a chance for education, reflection, and meaningful dialogue on the path toward reconciliation, under the theme, “What you can do” to support Truth and Reconciliation. Attendees will be able to participate in various activities designed to deepen their understanding of Indigenous cultures, history, and ongoing efforts toward healing and reconciliation.
This day is an important reminder of the continued trauma caused by residential and day schools. We honor the memory of those who were lost, as well as survivors and their families. In observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Town will close all municipal facilities, offering staff the time to reflect and educate themselves on the legacy of residential schools.
“Our participation in Truth and Reconciliation is critical to fostering a community where history is honored and a shared future is built together. By attending this event, we encourage all Cochranites to engage in meaningful discussions, listen to Indigenous voices, and take actionable steps toward reconciliation,” said Lisa Almond, Executive Director of Community Safety and Wellbeing, Town of Cochrane.
Event highlights:
- Refreshments and Bannock Samples: The first 150 guests will enjoy locally made Bannock.
- Art Activities & Cultural Demonstrations: Featured throughout the day.
Event schedule:
- Flag Raising & Drumming Ceremony (12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.) The event will open with a ceremonial flag-raising, featuring "The Survivor’s Flag," which will be displayed throughout the week.
- Tipi Talks & Hide Tanning Displays (1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.): Knowledge keepers and hide tanners will demonstrate traditional practices and share the cultural significance of hides.
- LetterPress Postcards for Truth & Reconciliation (1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.): Artist Michelle Wiebe will lead participants in exploring the history of letterpress in the residential school system and creating custom postcards as symbols of Truth and Reconciliation.
- Métis Storytime (1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.): A storytelling session for youth, featuring Métis tales, Michif words, and cultural items.
- Reconciliation Conversation (2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.): Amber Boyd, District Captain of Rocky View Métis, will lead a discussion on "Reconcili-Action," sharing personal insights and practical actions for meaningful reconciliation.
To learn more about this event visit cochrane-cochrane/truth-reconciliation.
About National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a federal statutory holiday dedicated to recognizing the painful legacy of residential schools and the ongoing impacts of colonization on Indigenous peoples in Canada. It serves as a time to reflect on the past and commit to a future grounded in mutual respect and understanding. Learn more about the history of residential schools at Residential School History – NCTR.