National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to be marked in St. Catharines

On Friday, Sept. 29, the City of St. Catharines is partnering with the Niagara Regional Native Centre  to commemorate the tenth anniversary of Orange Shirt Day, more recently recognized as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. There will be a commemorative ceremony held at 10 a.m. on the front steps of St. Catharines City Hall. Mayor Mat Siscoe will provide a welcome and land acknowledgement. The mayor’s remarks will be followed by some words from members of the local Indigenous communities and NRNC singers will perform songs for reflection. The ceremony will also feature the raising and lowering of the ‘Every Child Matters’ flag in honour of survivors, their families and the communities affected by the legacy of residential schools. Attendees are encouraged to wear orange to the event. Free parking will be available at all lots and meters in the downtown core (garages and permit lots excluded) on Friday, Sept. 29 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. In support of the NRNC and Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre’s food pantries, donations will be accepted beginning Sept. 29 up to and including Oct. 13. Donations can be made at City Hall or at any branch of the St. Catharines Public Library. Following the ceremonial event, attendees are encouraged to check out the Indigenous book collection at the St. Catharines Public Library, across the street from City Hall.