The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation was commemorated nationwide on Wednesday, including across Simcoe County. In Barrie, there was there was a sunrise ceremony, a day-long sacred fire, and the annual Memorial Walk along the waterfront, where descendants of residential school survivors kept their stories alive. Annette Cristo (spirit name Thunder Feather) was a guest speaker. Both her parents were in residential schools. “They brought home intergenerational trauma and unfortunately brought home the alcoholism to mask their pain, and carried it on to myself,” explained Cristo. Angela Boyer is a second-generation survivor, as her grandfather was in the residential school system. “It’s an honour to stand here today to honour my ancestors who are not here today,” said Boyer. “To change cycles and to be able to teach, and to be able to speak with my voice that many didn’t have.” As Mayor Alex Nuttall marched alongside the hundreds in the Memorial Walk, he urged for current and future generations to do their part in making sure history does not repeat itself. “When you think about the residential schools, children being snatched away from their families, and parents, and obviously such horrific things done,” stated Nuttall. “Today is about remembering all of that and ensuring that as a community we come together around it, and as we move forward, we assure never happens again.” The Memorial Walk was followed by a community gathering near the Spirit Catcher, as the sacred fire continued burning into the evening. Orange sneakers representing children who were victims of residential schools were once again displayed on a tree in front of the Spirit Catcher. There were numerous other Orange Shirt Day events across Simcoe County, including in Orillia, Midland, Collingwood, Penetanguishene, and New Tecumseth. Progressing toward reconciliation Of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action, the federal government says nearly two thirds have been completed or are well underway. “Some of our people who have not returned are unable to speak for themselves, but the families are still advocating for them,” said Cristo. “There’s lots of healing to do.” “We’re learning every day,” added Mayor Nuttall. “We’ve had opportunities to work with all of our Treaty partners and everything we do will ensure that there is maximum conversation, consultation and inclusion.”
