National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Sylvan Lake
Every year on September 30, Canadians pause to reflect on the history and lasting impacts of residential schools. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a time to honour the children who never came home, support the survivors who continue to carry this legacy, and learn from the families and communities forever changed.
Reconciliation is about more than looking back. It’s about acknowledging truth, amplifying Indigenous voices, and taking steps together toward healing. Across the country, people wear orange to show their support, learn from survivor stories, and take part in community events that invite both remembrance and action.
Here in Sylvan Lake, the day is marked by gathering together to learn, reflect, and connect.
Evening Program in Sylvan Lake
The evening begins at 6:00 PM at the Municipal Government Building with a welcoming address and the distribution of Orange Shirt Cards. From there, the Orange Shirt March sets out, led by the steady beat of a hand drum, guiding participants through town toward the Let Them Play mural at Centennial Park.
By 6:30 PM, the group will arrive at the mural for an evening of reflection, with words of acknowledgement from community leaders, songs from drummers and singers, and stories shared by Elders and Indigenous representatives.
The evening continues to the Tipis in Centennial Park at 7:00 PM, where Elders will be present to share wisdom. Guests can gather for tea and bison chili with Clare Butterfly and take part in placing signed Orange Cards on the mural as a symbolic gesture of commitment and solidarity.
Why It Matters
Sylvan Lake is located on Treaty 6 territory and is part of the homeland of the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3. These lands have long been gathering places for many Nations, including the Cree, Dene, Blackfoot, Saulteaux, Nakota Sioux, and Métis peoples. Acknowledging this truth is a step toward understanding, and gathering together on September 30 is part of that ongoing journey.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a reminder that reconciliation is not a single day, it’s a shared responsibility that continues year after year.
Join the community on September 30, beginning at 6:00 PM, to walk together, listen, and reflect in Sylvan Lake.
Keep Learning & Exploring
Want to continue your journey of learning and reflection? Here are a few places to start: