The community of Campbell River came together Tuesday to honour and remember Indigenous history in Canada on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The day began at Spirit Square with a Remembrance Walk through downtown, followed by traditional song and dance, food, and storytelling at the Kwanwatsi Big House.
Respected carver, singer and member of the Laxwaxdax’w people of the Kwakwaka’wakw Nation, Yakawidi (Shawn Decaire), says the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation holds deep meaning for him.
“The day means more than just talking about Orange Shirt Day. It’s about honouring the truth of what happened to all our people when they were taken from their families and put into residential schools,” says Decaire. “It’s about honouring the stories that never got to be heard, and for the people who are still suffering from the impacts of colonialism.”
The events at Spirit Square and the Kwanwatsi Big House were followed by a gathering at the Tidemark Theatre, where survivors of residential schools, Indian day schools and boarding homes shared their stories with the community.
Yakawidi says people can meaningfully support reconciliation, beyond the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, by talking to Indigenous people about their history.
“I’m grateful for everyone being here to support one another,” says Decaire.
