The Town of Smiths Falls is inviting residents to take part in a special community ceremony today (Sept. 30) in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, remembering and honouring victims and survivors of the residential school system.
Flora Mesher Riley has been helping put the event together. She says the gathering will begin at 5 p.m. in Centennial Park.
That ceremony takes place at the Healing Circle on Duck Island, a space dedicated to healing, connection, and understanding.
The ceremony will open with a Land Acknowledgement and remarks from Mayor Shawn Pankow. Indigenous community member Tim Bisaillon will also share his personal story as a descendant of residential school survivors.
A song by Mesher Riley will also be played at the ceremony. It was written after the mass grave of 215 students was found at the residential school in Kamloops, B.C.
Anyone wanting to purchase the CD can contact Flora directly at friley1999@gmail.com.
The money raised goes to help find more victims at the former school sites.
In addition to the event, the Town will illuminate the Bandstand in Town Square in orange until October 6th. The Every Child Matters flag is also fly at Lower Reach Park.
The public is encouraged to attend and take part.