National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

In person: Sept. 30, 2025

Join us on the historic site on Tuesday, September 30th, for a powerful day of reflection and learning.

Admission: Free

Hours: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Timed program:

• Sunrise ceremony at 6 a.m. Start the day with prayer and song led by Troy Monague of Beausoleil First Nation.
• Guided tour at 7 a.m. Join senior interpretive staff as they lead a tour focused on the Indigenous history of Sainte-Marie.
• Raising of the survivor flag at 8:15 a.m. Experience the powerful moment as the Survivor Flag is raised, a symbol of resilience and tribute to those who endured the hardships of the residential school system.
• Speaker Marilyn Hopkins at 9 a.m. and noon. Hear about the lived experiences of Indian Day School here in Ontario, from this beloved Elder in our community.
• Speaker Jim Calder at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2 p.m. Join a conversation with this leading expert in the history of lacrosse as he discusses cultural revitalization and healing through the Creator’s Game.

All-day learning:

• Exploration of treaties with a giant floor map: Immerse yourself in the history of North American treaties and their lasting impacts as you explore our interactive floor map.
• Film screenings: Explore the profound legacies of Canada’s residential school system through the films Indian Horse – kindly loaned to us by the Midland Public Library – and a shortened version of the Mohawk Institute documentary The Nature of Healing.
• Residential school survivor testimonials: As you walk through historic buildings, hear powerful stories of residential school survivors, bringing their experiences vividly to life through their voices.
• Sacred fire: Many thanks to firekeepers Sean Wilson and Colton Laramey for overseeing this important connection with the spirit realm throughout the day.
• Bannock, teas, and Indigenous foodways: Learn about these valuable traditions and how they have shaped Indigenous identities as you explore historic buildings.
• Learning About the 94 Calls to Action: Explore our museum exhibit and reflect on the 94 calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, and engage with the path toward meaningful reconciliation. Discover how these crucial steps are shaping a brighter future.

Restaurant Sainte-Marie opens from 8 a.m.

To accommodate the 6 a.m. sunrise ceremony and 7 a.m. morning tour, a buffet will be available from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning with brunch options.