By Rosalind Russell – Around 100 people, including students, took in Truth and Reconciliation/Orange Shirt Day activities at the Anishinabe Spiritual Centre south of Espanola yesterday.
Executive Director Edwina McDonald says the gathering opened with a Sunrise Ceremony and lighting of the Sacred Fire, along with blessings from Elders who were in attendance.
The ceremony was followed by walking tours, a breakfast featuring an Indigenous menu, and a blessing in the chapel.
She says the students then broke into smaller groups to meet with various Indigenous Elders throughout the day learning about residential schools and the impact it had on local families, as well as the story behind Orange Shirt Day.
She adds everyone also received a complimentary Orange Shirt to mark the day, and the centre looks forward to the gathering becoming an annual event.
Photos by Rosalind Russell and Anishinabe Spiritual Centre
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