Walk of Reconciliation to be held in Cranbrook Friday

Since June 2008, the National Truth a

nd Reconciliation Commission (TRC) has been meeting as part of the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement. It uses a restorative justice approach which aims to heal relationships between offenders, victims and the wider community. “The TRC hopes to guide and inspire Aboriginal peoples and Canadians in a process of reconciliation and renewed relationships that are based on mutual understanding and respect.” Check the websites http://www.trc.ca orhttp://reconciliationcanada.ca/ for more information.

Over the last 5 years, the TRC has heard stories of survivors about their experiences. It has been a powerful and important witness to a shameful part of Canada’s history. Healing has begun amid tears and laughter as survivors tell their stories and we listen.

This week, in the 6^th of 7 national events, the TRC is meeting in Vancouver. 

This meeting will be marked in Cranbrook this Friday, September 20 with a “Walk of Reconciliation” which begins at the College of the Rockies campus at noon. After a blessing from an elder, a guest speaker will explain the meaning and impact of the TRC. Following this we will walk to the Ktunaxa Nation Government building downtown, where light refreshments will be served.

The event is being co–­hosted by the College of the Rockies, CORFA (CotR Faculty Association), and the Ktunaxa Nation Council.