On September 30, in the Gitche Namewikwedong Reconciliation Garden, 200 or so visitors to the event honouring the day Truth and Reconciliation , were treated to a truly inspiring morning.

The program included music, story telling, drumming, singing and speeches. The experience was welcoming, inclusive, and heartwarming, but also shameful and tragic. I cried and laughed and learned a lot.

I believe this gathering was a fine demonstration of Reconciliation, and I feel so proud to have been there.. This is a real step forward for Owen Sound, and I look forward to more programs like this in the future.

I warmly thank and congratulate all of the participants and organizers  from Saugeen First Nation, Chippewas of Nawash at  Neyaasgiinigming,  the Métis Nation and the City of Owen Sound.

Terri Hope, Owen Sound

Thanks to Pauline Dantas for the photo.