There are a number of activities happening in and around Strathmore this week to help recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.

September 30 recognizes the victims of the Indian residential school system in Canada. People are also called on to wear orange, as September 30 also marks Orange Shirt Day.

The day reminds Canadians of the experiences of Phyllis Webstad, at residential school. On the first day of residential school her new orange shirt was taken from her.

Here are a few activities that will be taking place in Strathmore:

 

Community Walk At Kinsmen Park

The Town of Strathmore will be hosting an all-ages community walk around Kinsmen Lake in remembrance of the victims of Canada's residential school system.

The walk will begin at the Healing Garden beside the Strathmore Municipal Building at 2 p.m. on Thursday, September 30. Participants are encouraged to wear orange shirts to show their support.

 

Strathmore Library Indigenous Makers

This Strathmore Municipal Library has been celebrating Indigenous artists through their Indigenous Makers feature. Right now, they are recognizing photographer and artist Ramsey Kunkel.

Kunkel is a Metis artist who specializes in portrait photography and has taken photos for various local, national, and international clients. Kunkel’s works will be on display and for sale at the library in September and October.

Siksika Family Services Talent Show And Barbecue

Siksika Health Services Corporation will be hosting a barbecue at Siksika West Daycare from 2 to 6 p.m.

The barbecue will also feature a youth talent showcase. COVID-19 regulations will be place and masks are required.

Featured will be: • Residential School Survivors, Solo Rock performance by Jax Running Rabbit-Big Head; Acoustic Duo Performance by Echoes, Interpretive Dance by Teagyn Rabbit Carrier, Traditional Dance Demos by Siksika Youth and Children, Chicken Dance Demonstration by Cameron Own Chief, and Special Performance by Double Rider (formerly Third Generation).

 

SHS performance of New Blood

Long-time running Strathmore High School play, New Blood is coming back and a special performance of the play will be held on September 30 at 7 p.m. for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.

New Blood tells the history of residential schools and reconciliation, history told through dance, drama, poetry set to the Blackfoot music and that of Peter Gabriel.

It is inspired by the life of Chief Vincent Yellow Old Woman, his experience in residential school, and how he reclaimed his way of life and became chief of his people. This show is sold out.