The Town of Smiths Falls will host a community ceremony on Tuesday, September 30, to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
Residents are invited to gather at 5 p.m. in Centennial Park for a procession to Duck Island, where the Healing Circle will serve as the site of the ceremony.
Installed last year, the Healing Circle is a space dedicated to reflection, understanding, and connection.
Mayor Shawn Pankow said the day is about acknowledging Canada’s painful history and honouring survivors of residential schools. “Our commitment to truth and reconciliation is not limited to a single day—it is a continuous journey rooted in understanding, respect, and meaningful action,” he said.
The ceremony will begin with a Land Acknowledgement and remarks from Mayor Pankow, followed by an address from Tim Bisaillon, who will share his family’s experience with the residential school system.
The Bandstand at Town Square will glow orange from September 29 to October 6.
