As September approaches, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation invites us to honour Survivors, remember the children who never came home, and reflect on the ongoing journey toward reconciliation. While September 30 is a nationally recognized day of remembrance, reconciliation is not a destination, it is a path we choose to walk together through learning, relationship, and action.
This year, our community offers meaningful ways to take that journey.
For those looking to begin the day in reflection and movement, Capital Bike’s Truth & Reconciliation Ride brings riders together in a shared act of remembrance and solidarity. The annual ride offers space to connect with community while recognizing the significance of the day, reminding us that reconciliation is something we move toward together.
That journey naturally leads to one of Greater Victoria’s most anticipated community gatherings: the 5th Annual South Island Powwow, hosted by Songhees Nation at Royal Athletic Park. Open to all, the Powwow is an invitation to celebrate the strength, resilience, and living cultures of Indigenous Peoples through song, dance, and community. Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning year after year, the Powwow offers an opportunity to experience Indigenous culture with respect, curiosity, and gratitude.
The invitation to learn begins before September 30. Leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR) is offering a series of free virtual Lunch & Learns, bringing together Survivors, Knowledge Keepers, educators, and guest speakers. Accessible from wherever you are, the series offers an opportunity to pause, listen with intention, reflect, and carry the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation into the day and beyond. For those looking to continue their learning journey, the newly launched Alhgoh – Together as One, Together as Community: Pathway to Indigenous Cultural Safety offers a self-paced, accredited opportunity to deepen Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, and anti-racist practice.
From riding alongside community, to gathering at the South Island Powwow, to joining an NCTR Lunch & Learn or revisiting the Calls to Action, every step forward matters. Every day can be a day for truth. Every day can be a day for action.
Continue Your Journey
-
Capital Bike Truth & Reconciliation Ride – Gather in community and begin the day with reflection.
-
5th Annual South Island Powwow – Celebrate the strength, resilience, and living cultures of Indigenous Peoples at Royal Athletic Park.
-
National Centre for Truth & Reconciliation Lunch & Learn Series – Join a free virtual series leading up to September 30, featuring Survivors, Knowledge Keepers, educators, and guest speakers.
-
Alhgoh – Together as One, Together as Community – Explore this new self-paced, accredited learning pathway to strengthen Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, and anti-racist practice.
-
Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – 94 Calls to Action – Revisit the Calls to Action as a guide for continued learning, reflection, and meaningful action.
Local Learning Opportunity
Looking to continue your learning close to home? Our friends at the Victoria Native Friendship Centre are now accepting registrations for their Indigenous Safety in Healthcare program. This locally grounded learning experience combines e-learning with in-person experiential sessions led by Knowledge Keepers and cultural practice, supporting healthcare professionals in creating safer, more culturally responsive care.
Upcoming cohorts:
-
September 17 & 24
-
October 8 & 15
-
October 27 & November 3
-
November 18 & 25
Please contact Michele Nault Mortimer, Divisional Senior Indigenous Manager, with any questions: michele.nm@sidfp.com | 778-678-6415
