Truth and Reconciliation at Woodview Park

By Staff Reporter

On September 28th, Woodview Park Library opened its doors for an event leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Observed annually, the day honours the survivors of residential schools and recognizes the ongoing impact of colonialism on Indigenous communities in Canada. Woodview Park Library has long been a space for education and reflection, and this year’s event continued that tradition.

The celebration featured various activities designed to foster understanding and reconciliation within the community. Local Indigenous leaders and community members were invited to share their personal reflections, and Councillor Anthony Perruzza addressed the gathering, asking everyone to take a moment to consider the day’s significance.

Participants had the opportunity to learn about traditional art forms and engage in a meaningful craft activity, painting orange shirts as a symbol of remembrance. This activity provided children and families with a creative way to connect with the day’s themes and demonstrate respect for Indigenous traditions.

The event was made possible through the generous support of the Emery Village BIA, with special thanks to Chair Anthony Perruzza, Executive Director Sandra Farina, and the dedicated BIA members. Their kind donation of orange shirts helped unite the community, enabling the shirt-painting program.

Every painted shirt carries a story, a message, and a hope. These shirts symbolize a collective commitment to acknowledging the past, learning from it, and striving for a brighter, more inclusive future. The library’s walls are now adorned with these symbols, a symbol the strength and solidarity of the Emery community.

Woodview Park Library’s dedication to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation highlights its ongoing efforts to promote awareness, healing, and unity within the community. The library will continue to host additional programs throughout the year to keep the conversation going.

For those interested in continuing to learn and engage, stay tuned for updates on upcoming events.