It was a solemn day yesterday as people joined with members of the Indigenous community at Colonial Building in St. John’s to mark the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
On the gate surrounding the grounds, colourful markers, teddy bears and other items stood bright against the grey sky in memory of Indigenous children whose graves have been found across the country.
Inside, there was a smudging ceremony, singing and drumming. And a march was held.
The event was organized by NL Change Makers. Representative Grandmother Salmon says to mark the day the mayors of Corner Brook, Mount Pearl, and St. John’s were gifted wall hangings with the words “Every Child Matters” on them.
She says it was an emotional day for her, noting that it’s important for people to reflect on the histories of Indigenous Peoples.
“There has to be truth before reconciliation,” she says, noting that there are some Indigenous people in the province who aren’t aware of the true history. She questions how, if their own people aren’t fully aware, they can ever reconcile.