Residents encouraged to reflect for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

The Town of Oakville is offering a number of ways for residents to recognize National Day for Truth and Reconciliation throughout September. Over the next few weeks, Oakville residents are invited to reflect on the residential school experience and engage in the following activities to learn more about Indigenous communities:

Oakville, as we know it today, is rich in the history and modern traditions of many First Nations and the Métis. From the lands of the Anishinabe to the Attawandaron, the Haudenosaunee, and the Métis, these lands surrounding the Great Lakes are steeped in Indigenous history. We acknowledge and thank the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation for being stewards of this traditional territory.

Residents are reminded to follow provincial regulations and public health guidelines when participating in activities in the community. Please keep a two-metre distance from others and wear a mask when physical distancing is a challenge. In accordance with provincial regulations, if you are 12 years of age and older and attending an indoor in-person event at a town-owned facility such as the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts and Queen Elizabeth Park Community and Cultural Centre, you must provide proof of full vaccination with an identification card (that has your full name and date of birth) beginning September 22, 2021. More information about the Town of Oakville’s procedures related to proof of vaccination will be shared on the town’s COVID-19 Information page soon.

In addition to activities being offered by the town, throughout September, the “Every Child Matters” orange flag is being flown at half-mast at Town Hall from September 1-30 and during the week of September 27, Town Hall and the Oakville Centre for the Performing Arts will be lit orange.

For more information about how the town is honouring the Truth and Reconciliation process, visit the Indigenous Culture and Community page.

“The town is committed to reconciliation. While we reflect on the generational impact and trauma endured by Indigenous peoples for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I encourage residents to consider ways we can all work together to support an inclusive, diverse and equitable community. As we continue to address the calls to action, let us strive to be a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging.” – Mayor Rob Burton