Truth and Reconciliation Day events in Waterloo Region, Guelph and Brantford

Hundreds gather in Kitchener to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, 2024. (Hannah Schmidt/CTV News)

Events are being held across Waterloo Region, Guelph, Brantford and the surrounding area to mark Truth and Reconciliation Day on Sept. 30.

Here is a list of some of the commemorations:

Woodland Cultural Centre official unveiling: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

When: 9 a.m. until 6 p.m.

Where: Former Mohawk Institute Residential School at 184 Mohawk Street, Brantford

The former Mohawk Institute Residential School will be officially unveiled as an interpertive historical site. Entry will be on a first-come, first served basis. Bracelets will be handed out for timed admissions starting at 9 a.m. The event includes an opening ceremony, self-guided tours, film screenings and dancing.

Healing of the Seven Generations: Remember Me Walk

When: 10 a.m.

Where: 300 Frederick Street, Kitchener

Healing of the Seven Generations will be hosting A Walk to Remember and Honour All of our Children. The walk begins with the unveiling of a new bus design and police car wrap. The route will take walkers from the corner of Frederick and Locust streets to the Victoria Park clock tower where there will be drummers and special speakers.

After the walk ends, First Nations, Métis and Inuit people are invited to Crow Shield Lodge at 101 David Street for a Scared Fire.

Anishnabeg Outreach

When: 10 a.m. until 12 p.m.

Where: 1160 Spitzig Road, Woolwich (parking at Woodland Christian High School)

Anishnabeg Outreach is hosting an event at the AO Spirit Garden. The two-hour commemoration includes bannock and cedar tea, a sage harvest, tobacco ties, a learning table and fire circle. The organization will also be sharing their new Reconciliation Roadmap.

Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation

When: 3 p.m. until 9 p.m.

Where: MNCFN Community Centre at 659 New Credit Road, Hagersville

Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation will be commemorating National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with a fire. Participants will have the option to write down the names of lost loved ones for a future plaque.

The event also includes inflatables, axe throwing, an obstacle course and drone show.

Storytelling concert with Rebecca Hass

When: 7 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Where: Market Square at 1 Carden Street, Guelph

Métis artist Rebecca Hass will be sharing a deeply personal journey through story and song, woven from the threads of her family’s hidden history and the teaching passed down through her granny’s quilts.

The Song Blanket is a work in development, and will have a full premiere at New York’s Symphony Space in 2026. Guelph residents will have a rare opportunity to experience the piece in an intimate setting to honour Truth and Reconciliation Day.

University of Waterloo

When: 7 a.m. until 12 p.m.

Where: 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo

The University of Waterloo has planned a full morning of events to mark National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It begins with a sunrise ceremony at 7 a.m., followed by a commitment polishing ceremony at 10 a.m., and then remarks and a walk around Ring Road at 11 a.m. The ceremony ends with closing remarks, drumming and a round dance at 12 p.m.

University of Guelph

When: 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Where: John F. Wood Centre MakerSpace

The University of Guelph’s plans for Truth and Reconciliation Day include a Walk from the Circle Mound at the Art Gallery of Guelph to Branion Plaza from 9:30 a.m. until 10 a.m., an experiential learning opportunity called Sewehia:rak, We Remember at Johnston Hall from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m., and an Orange Shirt Gather on Johnston Green at 5 p.m.

The Guelph Indigenous Community Council, Guelph Outdoor School and Guelph Museums are offering an after-school gathering for children, youth and adults. The event includes a scared fire, indoor and outdoor activities and a special raptor presentation. “We will celebrate the language, ceremony, community and joy that were unjustly taken,” the event listing said.