September 30 is the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This day honours the children who never returned home from residential schools, as well as the Survivors, their families, and communities. It is a time to acknowledge the tragic and painful history of residential schools, to listen to Survivors, and to commit to reconciliation. Across Grey and Bruce Counties, there are many opportunities to gather, learn, and reflect together.

One of the events marking the day is Voices of the Children – Binoojiinyag dadibaajimowag, happening on Tuesday, September 30 from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. in Owen Sound. This gathering is dedicated to honouring children, supporting Survivors, and reminding us of the importance of public commemoration in the healing process. A Fire Ceremony will also take place at the Gichi-Name Wiikwedong Reconciliation Garden in Nawash Park, Owen Sound. This ceremony offers space for reflection and connection.

At Grey Roots Museum & Archives in Owen Sound, the community is invited to a full day of reflection and learning, with free admission on September 30. Visitors can explore treaty history, view Saukiing Anishnaabekiing Presents Our Stories by Nyle Miigizi Johnston, and take part in self-led learning in the Grey County Gallery, which was updated in collaboration with local First Nations members. The exhibit Broken Connections highlights the ongoing impact of residential schools. At 11:00 a.m., Grey Roots will host an Every Child Matters flag raising, followed by a 1:00 p.m. screening of WaaPaKe, an award-winning documentary about the impact of residential schools and the path toward healing.

In the days leading up to September 30, Bruce Grey Child and Family Services is hosting a virtual book reading with author David A. Robertson on Monday, September 29 from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m. (online). Robertson, a member of Norway House Cree Nation, will read from his award-winning book When We Were Alone. This event is open to schools, businesses, and community members. Registration is required by emailing events@bgcfs.ca.

The Owen Sound & North Grey Union Public Library in Owen Sound is also contributing to this important time of year. On September 23 at 6:00 p.m., the library will host the debut of Voices: Lighting a Pathway to Indigenous Inclusion, a new film by Muckpaloo Ipeelie.

The Municipality of Kincardine is recognizing the day by raising the Survivors’ Flag at the Kincardine Library on September 23 at 11:00 a.m., with the flag also flying at Tiverton’s Station 11 Fire Hall until October 1. Community members can pick up stickers, posters, and educational resources at the Davidson Centre, Tiverton Arena, Municipal Administration Centre, and Welcome Centre during this period.

Other ongoing opportunities to learn and reflect include the exhibit A National Crime: The Residential School System, Local Saugeen Ojibway Nation Impacts at the Bruce County Museum in Southampton, running from September 15 through November 30. And looking ahead, the Municipality of Kincardine will host the Walk for Wenjack on Saturday, October 18 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. at Station Beach, Kincardine. This 2 km walk honours the legacy of Chanie Wenjack and invites the community to reflect, learn, and take action on the path to reconciliation.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is not just a day to pause—it is a call to listen, learn, and build stronger relationships. These local events give us all the chance to connect with history, honour Survivors, and commit to moving forward in a spirit of understanding and respect.