National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day
Located on Treaty 6 territory and Métis Nation of Alberta District 11, the City of Fort Saskatchewan is committed to recognizing and uplifting the rich cultures, traditions, and voices of Indigenous Peoples.
The City invites residents to attend a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day gathering at Fort Heritage Precinct on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
The morning program includes opening remarks, a drum-led community walk, opportunities for reflection, and free access to the Hear Our Voices: Michel People and Residential Schools exhibition.
Community members are encouraged to wear orange shirts and gather in a spirit of learning, remembrance, and reflection.
Throughout the day, the Healing Hands of Reconciliation tipi will serve as a symbol of our community's commitment to truth, understanding, and reconciliation.
Schedule
9:30 am | Gates Open
- Gathering begins
- Smudging available
- Tea and bannock available
10:00 – 11:00 am | Community Walk
- Led by a drum
- Heritage Loop Trail
- Approximately 1.2 km on a paved trail
- Approximately 25 to 35 minutes
Exhibition
Hear Our Voices: Michel People and Residential Schools
The exhibition will be open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm in the Fort program space.
Important Information
Weather
Dress for the weather. The event will proceed unless severe weather conditions require otherwise.
Community Walk
The walk follows a paved trail and includes two areas of gentle elevation change. While the route is accessible, some participants may find mobility aids helpful. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Content Advisory
This event addresses difficult truths and provides space for remembrance, learning, and reflection. Participants are encouraged to take care of themselves and step away at any time if needed.
Healing Hands of Reconciliation Tipi
In 2025, community members came together to create the Healing Hands of Reconciliation tipi in partnership with Dreamcatchers Gift and Art Gallery. Residents were invited to demonstrate their commitment to reconciliation by adding painted handprints and signing a pledge.
Today, the 26-foot tipi stands at Fort Heritage Precinct as an enduring symbol of truth, understanding, and reconciliation. The artwork, created by Ojibwe artist Ellie Lagrandeur, depicts the Seven Grandfather Teachings and the Medicine Wheel, while the painted handprints represent the community's collective commitment to reconciliation.
Located within the historic North-West Mounted Police Fort, the tipi provides a space for reflection, learning, dialogue, and healing.
Why Your Participation Matters
By participating, you will help us create a space for education, reflection, and celebration, fostering a deeper understanding and connection within our community. Your contributions, whether through music, visual arts, or spoken word, will play a vital role in making this day meaningful and impactful.
More About Our Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation
The City of Fort Saskatchewan is committed to Truth and Reconciliation. We understand the significance of this journey and are dedicated to building respectful and meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities. Learn more about our ongoing efforts and how you can support Truth and Reconciliation.
Educational Resources
We encourage everyone in Fort Saskatchewan to learn more about the history and ongoing impact of Residential Schools. Explore resources offered by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) and other organizations dedicated to this cause.
The City of Fort Saskatchewan thanks Dow for their continued support of this event.