September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, an annual day of reflection to honour Indigenous communities, walk together on a path to reconciliation and healing, and deliver on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls-to-Action.

The day coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which remembers the lives lost through the residential school system in Canada.

Flags at all City facilities are lowered in observation of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

“Today is a day to honour Indigenous communities, reflect on the harm caused to them by residential schools, and act on our collective responsibility to bring reconciliation to life through our daily decisions.

The City of Grande Prairie is creating a legacy committed to helping Indigenous communities heal.

In the last year, we are proud to have taken many steps towards reconciliation and strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities.

On behalf of Grande Prairie City Council, we remain committed to reconciliation and encourage all community members to take time to reflect and learn on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.”

-          Mayor Jackie Clayton

The City of Grande Prairie is pleased to have taken steps to advance our reconciliation efforts, including:

• Creating an action-oriented Indigenous Relations Framework that was approved by City Council in April 2023 which includes 29 actions to take to advance toward reconciliation and redress the legacy of residential schools.
• Raising the Treaty 8 and Metis flags in council chambers and participating in an Indigenous pipe ceremony to ensure all decisions are guided by a commitment to reconciliation.
• Establishing a land acknowledgement policy and making it a part of every City Council meeting.
• Fostering relationships with local and regional Indigenous leaders, including with the Treaty 8 Grande Chief Arthur Noskey.
• Co-hosting the Grande Prairie Traditional Pow-Wow.
• Successfully bidding on the National Aboriginal Hockey Championships, which supports and creates awareness for Indigenous sport. The successful bid makes Grande Prairie the first Alberta community to host the championships.
• Publishing a “Must-Read List” to encourage education about Indigenous heritage and culture for National Indigenous People’s Day.

To learn more about the City of Grande Prairie’s Indigenous Relations or to read the Indigenous Relations Framework, visit: https://cityofgp.com/culture-community/indigenous-relations-tawawwelcome.