ACDS is committed to meaningfully participating in the ongoing journey toward reconciliation. This includes supporting our staff, member agencies, and the broader sector to learn, reflect, and actively participate as allies in this important work.
Orange Shirt Day, led by Indigenous communities, raises awareness of the intergenerational impacts of residential schools. The orange shirt symbolizes the loss of culture, freedom, and self-esteem experienced by many Indigenous children and serves as a reminder that Every Child Matters. On September 30, Canadians are encouraged to wear orange to honour the thousands of survivors of residential schools.
Events
Below are some upcoming events and trainings for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation:
Spirit of Reconciliation – Southcentre Mall (September 30 at 1 pm)
Tipi in Centre Court will serve as a place of commemoration and reflection. Guests are invited to take part in cultural interpretation and a special performance. Learn more.
Truth and Reconciliation – Together as One (Heritage Park) (September 30, from 10 am to 3 pm)
Full day of ceremony, storytelling, and cultural experiences reflecting “Together as One.” Free entry for Indigenous visitors; advance registration encouraged. Learn more.
Pokaiks Reconciliation Walk & Event (September 30, from 11 am to 5:50 pm)
Walk from Peace Bridge (Eau Claire Park side) to Contemporary Calgary, followed by performances, artisan booths, and community activities. Learn more.
Orange Shirt Day at The Confluence (September 30, from 10 am to 5 pm)
Free community event at The Confluence Historic Site & Parkland featuring storytelling, theatre performances, walking tours, hands-on activities, and opportunities to reflect and engage with Indigenous history and reconciliation. Learn more.
Speak Up! The Power of Music in Reconciliation – Studio Bell (September 30 at 1 pm)
A discussion on music’s role in reconciliation with Rex Smallboy, Wendy Walker, and Curt Young on the panel, hosted by Drezus. Visitors encouraged to explore the updated Speak Up! exhibition. Learn more.
Calgary Public Library National Day Events (September 30, from 12 pm to 5 pm)
Author Talk: Angela Sterritt at University of Calgary campus and Indigenous Placemaking installations at multiple library locations. Learn more.
Smudge With Us: A Weekly Cultural Connection – AFCC (September 30, from 10 am to 1:30 pm)
A weekly smudging ceremony providing a safe space for cultural and spiritual connection. Learn more.
Reconciliation Through Employment – Alberta Chamber of Commerce (September 30, from 10 am to 11 am)
One-hour virtual session with keynote Patrick Dinsdale (Curve Lake First Nation) on supporting reconciliation through employment and entrepreneurship. Learn more.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Werklund Centre (September 30, from 11 am to 6:30 pm)
Art Galleries Tour, Indigenous Makers Market & Pow Wow Showcase, and Echoes of the Land auditory experience. Learn more.
Incorporating Truth and Reconciliation in Our Role as Health and Mental Health Practitioners (October 6, from 12:30 pm to 4 pm)
Training on implicit bias, Indigenous Social Determinants of Health, and allyship. Group registration available. Learn more.
Resources
How to Be an Ally Toolkit: Developed by the Legacy of Hope Foundation, this toolkit guides individuals on how to be an ally and why it is important
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