An Amherstburg bookstore is hosting a community panel Saturday ahead of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. River Bookshop will welcome Indigenous author Maurice Switzer, muralist Naomi Peters and Caldwell First Nation Chief Nikki van Oirschot for a discussion beginning at 2 p.m. Switzer, who is from North Bay, will discuss his book Sons of Tecumseh. Peters created two Tecumseh murals at the bookstore three years ago. The event will be held in the store’s Art Alley, beside the murals. River Bookshop co-owner Richard Peddie said the bookstore has been marking Truth and Reconciliation for several years, but has expanded its programming this year. “Now, we’ve been recognizing Truth and Reconciliation for about three years, but we’ve really amped it up a lot more this year,” Peddie said. Peddie noted the panel is part of an effort to give greater recognition to Indigenous history and the contributions of First Nations people. The event is free, and organizers have prepared seating for about 70 people, although Peddie said he hopes attendance exceeds that capacity. National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed Sept. 30.
