Collingwood Honours National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with Events and Initiatives this September

Collingwood, ON [10 September 2026] The Town of Collingwood recognizes September 30th as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time to honour the children who never returned from residential schools, acknowledge the experiences of survivors and their families, and reflect on the ongoing impacts of this chapter in Canada’s history.

Reconciliation is not a single event but a continuing journey that begins with truth, understanding, and action.

It involves listening to Indigenous voices, recognizing historical and present-day realities, and creating respectful relationships that support healing and lasting change. Together, we can advance reconciliation by deepening our knowledge and demonstrating a commitment to equity, respect, and inclusion.

The Town of Collingwood remains committed to encouraging awareness and meaningful action by providing opportunities for the community to learn, reflect, and engage in reconciliation. To support this commitment, community members are invited to several events and initiatives that aim to deepen an understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures, and teachings, while fostering meaningful reflection and dialogue.

Truth & Reconciliation: Navigating Change with Courage, featuring Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux

Date: Wednesday, September 16, 2026
Time: 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: Collingwood Public Library, 55 Ste Marie St.

Join the Collingwood Public Library in welcoming Dr. Cynthia Wesley-Esquimaux, a member of the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation, as she shares her insights on Indigenous “Wise Practices” and the “Seven Teachings” that guide her work in advancing reconciliation.

Registration is requested to attend this free event; register at www.collingwoodpubliclibrary.ca. Select Programs Calendar and click on the event listed on the applicable date to register or call 705-445-1571.

Flag Raising: National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Community Flagpole, 55 Ste Marie St.

All are welcome to attend the flag-raising event at the community flagpole. The Every Child Matters flag will be raised in awareness and remembrance, honoring the children and families affected by the Canadian residential school system.

Noojimo Mitigwaaki: Healing Forest

Location: 1 Water St., by the Labyrinth
Date: ongoing

Noojimo Mitigwaaki invites you to follow a pathway of seven signs, each sign sharing an Indigenous image, teaching, and life reflection. Led by a local advisory group, this initiative shares Indigenous teachings that remind us that all of life carries purpose and responsibility. Learn more about the Healing Forest on the Town’s website.

Poetry Installation featuring work by Jillian Morris

Location: Harbourview Park
Date: ongoing

Explore the poetry installation by local poet Jillian Morris, featuring the poem “Spare a Moment.” The installation is located along the trail at Harbourview Park behind the Labyrinth – a side trail branching off the Georgian Trail. Look for the Truth & Reconciliation sign at the entrance of the Snowshoe Trail.

Wear Orange on September 30

All community members are encouraged to wear orange on September 30 in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Every Child Matters buttons and pins will be available while supplies last at Town Hall, 97 Hurontario St., starting September 21. 

Orange Feathers in Downtown Collingwood

Orange feathers featuring a QR code connecting you to resources on the Awen’ and Reconciliation page of the Town’s website will be mounted to light standards in downtown Collingwood starting Monday, September 21.

For information about these events and initiatives, please visit collingwood.ca/truth

To access resources for learning about reconciliation, please visit collingwood.ca/awen