Taking time for meaningful reflection about the impacts of the Residential School System

Recognizing Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation across Bruce County this autumn.
An image with white text and symbols on an orange background. The illustration features a feather, a narwhal and a flower, representing First Nations, Inuit and Métis. The symbols are surrounded by stars, a crescent moon, rising smoke, dotted patterns and flowing lines representing remembrance and the ongoing journey of reconciliation.

This autumn, a variety of events, ceremonies and actions are taking place across Bruce County recognizing Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th.

Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation are important moments for Bruce County to pause, remember, and recommit to the work of reconciliation. They are opportunities to honour the children taken from their families and forced to attend residential schools, to recognize Survivors and their families, and to reflect on the responsibilities we share as a community. 

Bruce County raised the Every Child Matters flag outside their facilities beginning September 1st. It will lower to half-mast on September 30th in memory of the children who never returned home. The flag design is by Taylor Cameron, an artist from Saugeen First Nation #29.

Bruce County Museum and Cultural Centre events

The Bruce County Museum & Cultural Centre continues to provide opportunities to learn more about Indigenous history, culture, and contemporary experiences through exhibitions, programming, films, and speaker series. 

The Witness Blanket 

The Witness Blanket is a powerful art installation created by Master Carver Carey Newman to recognize the atrocities of the residential school era, honour the children and symbolize ongoing reconciliation. Additionally there will be some specific pieces to engage in as part of this exhibit including:  

Free Admission – National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 

Enjoy free admission to the Museum on September 30, 2026, and take the opportunity to view the Witness Blanket Exhibit or explore the interactive Biinaagami Water Map between 1 and 5 p.m. 

Discussing Truth and Reconciliation with Melanie Florence 

On September 28, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., join award-winning children’s author Melanie Florence for a thoughtful and practical workshop designed to help parents, grandparents, caregivers, and educators approach conversations about Truth and Reconciliation with children.

Bruce County Public Library events

Bruce County Public Library is recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation through programs, book displays, educational opportunities, and resources throughout September and October. 

Story Times and Family Programming 

Branches may host story times and learning opportunities featuring Indigenous authors, stories, and perspectives. Discover an event near you on the BCPL Event Calendar. 

Children’s Author Visit with Melanie Florence 

Join Melanie Florence at the Walkerton Branch on September 29, 2026, at 1 p.m. She is a Canadian author of Cree descent, for an afternoon of cultural storytelling and reading. Melanie will share her 2016 TD Canadian Children’s Literature award-winning book, Stolen Words, and celebrate the power of Indigenous stories. 

An Evening with Author Melanie Florence 

Melanie will present at the Kincardine Branch on September 29, 2026, at 6 p.m., offering insights for parents, grandparents, and caregivers on discussing Truth and Reconciliation with children.

Walk for Wenjack

The Walk for Wenjack is an annual initiative of the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund that brings Indigenous and non-Indigenous people together through education, awareness, and action. 

The organization of local walks across Bruce County is thanks to partnership with Indigenous communities, municipalities, community organizations, and local partners. 

2026 Walk for Wenjack Events 

  • September 27, 2026, at 1 p.m. – Kincardine, Station Beach 
  • September 30, 2026, at 6 p.m. – Walkerton, Riverbend Park 
  • October 19, 2026, at 1 p.m. – Southampton, Fairy Lake Pavillion 
  • October 21, 2026, at 1 p.m. – Southampton, Saugeen First Nation Amphitheatre 

The Secret Path Screenings

Screenings of The Secret Path are a part of the Walk for Wenjack programming this year:

Support and Resources

If you are a Survivor of the residential school system or a family member, you may find yourself triggered as we near September 30th. The Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program offers a variety of supports, and the 24-Hour National Indian Residential School Crisis Line is 1-866-925-4419 for immediate emotional assistance.