Saturday, September 30 marks the third annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour First Nations, Inuit and Métis survivors of residential schools and their families. It also coincides with Orange Shirt Day, a day that generates awareness of the individual, family and community inter-generational impacts of Indian Residential Schools.
To honour this important day, Mississauga is hosting a variety of events throughout September and October commemorating the history and continuing impacts of this tragedy.
Recognition Happening Throughout the City
To recognize both the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day, the City will raise the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) flag on September 30 at Mississauga Celebration Square. Additionally, the Civic Centre clock tower will be lit orange.
Also on September 30, Celebration Square will offer opportunities to learn and reflect during your visit, with the digital screens displaying messages highlighting the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and the City of Mississauga’s commitment to reconciliation.
Additionally, in February 2022 the City permanently raised the Every Child Matters flag, which can be viewed at City Hall.
Learn and Reflect at Mississauga Exhibits, Tours and More
For those looking to learn more about the legacy of Indigenous peoples and the ongoing impact of residential schools, Mississauga has a variety of exhibits, tours and events happening in September and onward.
On September 30 and October 1, the Eagle Spirits of the Great Waters host the Third Annual Gathering & Healing Ceremony at the Small Arms Inspection Building. All are welcome to experience Indigenous art, music, storytelling, food and family activities, celebrating the spirit of togetherness.
- The Bradley Museum Truth and Reconciliation tour, available throughout September, provides a guided tour of the grounds with knowledgeable museum staff. It teaches visitors about the history of Indigenous Peoples on the land now known as Mississauga and the Credit Mission Village. Staff will also share what the City of Mississauga is doing today to further the process of reconciliation.
- Similarly, you can take a guided tour at Benares Historic House on September 30 to learn about the history of Indigenous peoples on the land now known as Mississauga.
- Residents and visitors can explore and participate in the Moccasin Identifier Project, both at the Museums of Mississauga throughout September, and at the Malton Library on October 6. Through this educational initiative, participants use stencils to create temporary paintings of moccasins worn by Indigenous Peoples to promote awareness and understanding of the history of the land we stand on.
- In collaboration with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Museums of Mississauga created the Honouring the Mississaugas exhibit to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the Mississaugas leaving the Credit for a new home in Hagersville. This exhibit provides another wonderful opportunity to learn more about important Indigenous history. You can find it at the Meadowvale Library until September 14, then at the Frank McKechnie Library from September 16 – 30. While you’re there, check out some books from the Truth and Reconciliation book list.
Visit the City of Mississauga’s website to learn more about its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Stay tuned to Visit Mississauga on Facebook and Instagram for all the details on events happening this month.