TRC EvEnT - Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada

BRITISHCOLUMBIANATIONAL EVENTSEPTEMBER 18-21, 2013VANCOUVER | PACIFIC NATIONAL EXHIBITIONPROGRAMVANCOUVERIT’S ABOUT HONESTY – A National Journeyfor Healing and Reconciliation

STAY CONNECTEDIf you are interested in staying connected with the workof the TRC through social media, visit us at trc.caOR...HASHTAG ALERT! We’ll be live-tweeting from theBritish Columbia National Event… find us under #BCNE.Follow us on Twitter @TRC_en for all news, events andopportunities for Reconciliation.Over 6,500 people like us on Facebook.You should too! Visit our Truth and ReconciliationCommission page and ‘like’ us today!Watch TRC videos on YouTube (TheTRCCanada) and Vimeo.Visit our website and click on the icons.TRC Event T-shirts!Purchase in the Registration Tent for $20 (cash only).Survivors will receive, with registration,a $10 off coupon for the purchase of one T-shirt.BRITISHMessage from the Commissioners. ............................... 2Message from the BC First Nations Leadership Council. ............. 3COLUMBIABentwood Box ................................................. 4Schedule at a GlanceNATIONAL EVENTWednesday, September 18. ................................... 6Thursday, September 19. ..................................... 8SEPTEMBER 18-21, 2013Friday, September 20. ...................................... 10Saturday, September 21. .................................... 12VANCOUVER | PACIFIC NATIONAL EXHIBITIONSacred Fire.................................................... 14Share Your Truth............................................... 16Education Day ................................................ 19MapsPacific National Event Grounds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Learning Place – PNE Agrodome ............................. 22Learning Place Programs ....................................... 24Missing Children .............................................. 25About the ProgramWednesday, September 18. .................................. 26Thursday, September 19. .................................... 28Friday, September 20. ...................................... 30Saturday, September 21. .................................... 32Additional Programming .................................... 32Important Information About Services. .......................... 34Honorary Witnesses ........................................... 36Contents

2 3A Message from theTRC Commissionersto theWelcome Truthand Reconciliation Commissionof Canada (TRC) British ColumbiaNational Event in Vancouverfrom September 18-21, 2013.We acknowledge the Squamish,Musqueam and Tsleil-waututhNations, on whose traditionalphoto L-R: Commissioner Marie Wilson, Justice Murray Sinclair, territory this historic gatheringChair and TRC Commissioner Chief Wilton Littlechild.is taking place.TRC events provide an important opportunity for those affected by the legacyof the Indian Residential Schools to share their experiences with the Commissionand the public. They help educate Canadians about the country’s 150-year historyof residential schools, and their legacy.This TRC National Event – the sixth of seven mandated by the 2007 IndianResidential Schools Settlement Agreement – is being held in collaboration withReconciliation Canada, which has been mandated by the First Nations LeadershipCouncil to advance reconciliation activities throughout BC. Reconciliation Canadahas organized activities before and after the BC National Event.In preparation for this event, the TRC has held public hearings in Port Hardy,Campbell River, Port Alberni, Duncan (Cowichan), Victoria, Prince George,Williams Lake, Kamloops and Terrace.Survivors from these and adjacent communities shared their experiences with theCommission in public and private sessions. Most of these hearings were webcaston www.trc.ca, where the BC National Event will also be webcast, with largenumbers of people tuning in from all over the world. Survivors and their familymembers shared many personal and emotional stories, as well as hope for changeand reconciliation.In this same spirit of openness, the TRC British Columbia National Event will offer aunique opportunity for all Canadians, to hear first-hand the experiences of thosewho attended the schools, to bear witness to the legacy of the residential schools,and to celebrate Aboriginal culture. It is free and open to everyone.We welcome you to Vancouver as we continue on this national journey for truth,healing and reconciliation.Respectfully,Justice Murray SinclairchairChief Wilton LittlechildcommissionerDr. Marie WilsoncommissionerA Message from theBC First Nations Leadership CouncilBRITISH ColumbiaAssembly ofFirst NationsFIRSTNATIONSSUMMITUNION OFBRITISH COLUMBIAINDIAN CHIEFSOn behalfof the BC Assembly of FirstNations, the First NationsSummit, and the Union of BC Indian Chiefs, the FirstNations Leadership Council welcomes the Truth andReconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) toVancouver.We commend the Commission for the importantwork that it will undertake during the BC NationalEvent from September 18 to 21, and welcome all thosewho will take part – residential school Survivors andtheir family members who will share their stories,dignitaries, Church delegates, Commissioners, eventorganizers, volunteers, and British Columbians fromall walks of life.Truth-telling is a critical step along the path to healingand recovery for those impacted by the residentialschools and their legacy, and bearing witness tothe truths of others is equally important in movingtowards reconciliation. Reconciliation is onlypossible if it is firmly rooted in a shared understandingof each other’s truths.The residential school system sought to systematicallydestroy our languages, cultures, spirituality, families,communities and pride. It unquestionably didenormous and lasting damage, but it has alsoconfirmed our resilience. Our commitment toreclaiming our heritage and culture is stronger thanever, as is our commitment to reconciliation amongAboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples.Thank you for being part of the TRC’s BC NationalEvent, and all of the events taking place duringReconciliation Week. We wish you many meaningfuland memorable experiences.BC Assembly of First NationsFirst Nations SummitUnion of BC Indian Chiefs

45Bentwood BoxThe TRC Bentwood Box reflects the strength and resilienceof Residential School Survivors and their descendants,and honours those Survivors who are no longer living.The Box will travel with the TRC to all of its seven NationalEvents throughout Canada.As the Box travels with theCommission to different provincesand territories, offerings will bemade to it to commemoratepersonal journeys toward healingand reconciliation.At the end of the TRC’s mandate,it will be housed in the NationalResearch Centre at the Universityof Manitoba.Throughout the TRC NationalEvent, the Bentwood Box will beon site for the CommissionersSharing Panels, HonoraryWitness Ceremonies and duringthe Expressions of Reconciliation.Carved by Coast Salish artist Luke Marston, the TRC BentwoodBox is a lasting tribute to all Indian Residential School Survivors.Steamed and bent from a single piece of red cedar, the carvedpanels represent the unique cultures of former First Nations,Inuit and Métis students. The artist pays respect to his owngrandmother by depicting her residential schools experiencesat Kuper Island in the carvings.

Schedule at a Glance6 7Wednesday, September 18, 2013TIME EVENT VENUE6:30am-8am8am-8:30am9am-10:30am11am-1pmLighting of the Sacred Fire andMorning PrayersSurvivor WalkWelcome to the Territory,Opening Ceremonies andInduction of HonoraryWitnessesHow to Share your TruthReconciliation Dialogue. Be theChange: Young People Healingthe Past & Building the FutureSacred Fire siteFrom Sacred Fire to ColiseumColiseumForum — Sharing Circle AreaColiseum1pm-3pm Commissioners Sharing Panel Coliseum1pm-2pm How to Share your Truth Forum — Sharing Circle Area1pm-2:30pmCreating and SharingDigital StoriesForum — Program Area1pm-3pm Survivors in Solidarity Forum — Panel AreaDaily ProgrammingTIME EVENT VENUE8am-5pm Survivor Registration Registration Tent9am-5pm Learning Place Agrodome9am-6pm Private Statement Gathering Rollerland9am-5pm Displays and Artisans Agrodome1pm-5pmChurches Listeningto Survivors AreaAgrodome1pm-4pm11amnoon1:15pm-3pmReconciliation CanadaDialogue WorkshopChurches Listening CircleReconciliation CanadaDialogue TentChurches Listeningto Survivors Area3pm-4pm From the Heart Project Forum — Program Area3pm-4pm Expressions of Reconciliation Coliseum4pm-5pmCall to Gather:Honorary WitnessCeremony and ReflectionsColiseumPhoto:Alert Bay Mission School, 1885. George M. Dawson / Library and Archives Canada / PA-037934IT’S ABOUT LOVE — A National Journey for Healing, Families and Reconciliation

8 9Schedule at a GlanceThursday, September 19, 2013TIME EVENT VENUE8:30am-9amCommissioners Welcome Forum — Panel Area9am-10amExpressions of Reconciliation Forum — Panel Area9am-11amSharing CircleForum — Sharing Circle Area9:30am-2:30pmEducation DayColiseum and other locations10amnoonCommissioners Sharing Panel Forum — Panel Area12:30pm-2:30pmSharing CircleForum — Sharing Circle Area1pm-1:30pm1pm-2:30pm1:15pm-3pm1:30pm-3pm3pm-4pmHonorary WitnessReflectionsIt Matters to Me:A Town Hall on ReconciliationChurches Listening CircleCommissioners Sharing PanelFilm Screening:A Sorry StateForum — Panel AreaForum — Program AreaChurches Listeningto Survivors AreaForum — Panel AreaForum — Program Area3pm-5pm Sharing Circle Forum — Sharing Circle Area4pm-5pm4pm-6pmFilm Screening:The Story of Dancing BearCall to Gather: HonoraryWitness Reflections andExpressions of Reconciliation7pm-9pm Free Concert ColiseumForum — Program AreaForum — Panel AreaDaily ProgrammingTIME EVENT VENUE6:30am Sunrise Ceremony Sacred Fire site8am-5pm Survivor Registration Registration Tent9am-5pm Learning Place Agrodome9am-6pm Private Statement Gathering Rollerland9am-5pmChurches Listeningto Survivors AreaFREE CONCERTPlease join us in celebrating some of BC’s most gifted performers.Featuring: Award-winning Canadiansongwriter and entertainerwith special guests• Inez Jasper• Zaccheus• Uzume Taiko• Leanne GooseAgrodome9am-5pm Displays and Artisans Agrodome• bitterly divine• Gary Fjellgaard• Royal Academyof Bhangra• Shot of ScotchTHURSday, SEPTEMBER 19 at 7pmAT THE PACIFIC COLISEUM

Friday, September 20, 2013TIME EVENT VENUECommissioners WelcomeHonorary WitnessTalking CircleForum — Panel AreaForum — Panel Area9am-11am Sharing Circle Forum — Sharing Circle Area9am-10am Why Memory Matters - Panel Forum — Program Area9am-noon1pm-3:30pmReconciliation CanadaDialogue WorkshopReconciliation and the Arts -PanelCommissioners Sharing PanelFilm Screening:The Learning PathSharing CircleReconciling IndigenousHealing and HealthEducation LeadershipReconciliation CanadaDialogue WorkshopReconciliation CanadaDialogue TentForum — Program AreaForum — Panel AreaForum — Program AreaForum — Sharing Circle AreaForum — Program AreaSchedule at a Glance10111pm-4pm8:30am-9am9am-10:30am10am-11am10:30am-12:30pm11:30am-12:30pm12:30pm-2:30pm1:15pm-3pm1:30pm-3:30pmChurches Listening CircleCommissioners Sharing PanelReconciliation CanadaDialogue TentChurches Listeningto Survivors AreaForum — Panel Area3pm-5pm Sharing Circle Forum — Sharing Circle Area4pm-6pm4pm-6pmCall to Gather: HonoraryWitness Reflections andExpressions of ReconciliationFilm Screening:We Were ChildrenForum — Panel AreaForum — Program Area7pm-9pm Talent Night Forum — Panel Area7:30pm-9:30pmVancouver Giants Homeopenerhonouring SurvivorsColiseum*See p. 29 for ticket informationDaily ProgrammingTIME EVENT VENUE6:30am Sunrise Ceremony Sacred Fire site8am-6pm Survivor Registration Registration Tent9am-5pm Learning Place Agrodome9am-6pm Private Statement Gathering Rollerland9am-5pmChurches Listeningto Survivors AreaAgrodome9am-5pm Displays and Artisans AgrodomeIn this emotional film, the profoundimpact of Canada’s residentialschools is conveyed unflinchinglythrough the childhood experiencesof Lyna Hart and Glen Anaquod.Date: September 20 | 4pmlocation: Forum — Program Area

Saturday, September 21, 20131pm-3pm Commissioners Sharing Panel Forum — Panel Area1pm-3pm Sharing Circle Forum — Sharing Circle AreaHonouring Women’s Wisdom:Pathways of Truth, Resilienceand ReconciliationReconciliation CanadaDialogue WorkshopForum — Program AreaDaily ProgrammingTIME EVENT VENUE6:30am Sunrise Ceremony Sacred Fire site9am-noon Survivor Registration Registration Tent9am-3pm Learning Place Agrodome9am-6pm Private Statement Gathering Rollerland9am-3pmChurches Listeningto Survivors AreaAgrodome9am-3pm Displays and Artisans AgrodomeSchedule at a Glance12131pm-4pmTIME EVENT VENUECommissioners Welcome:8:30am- Honorary Witness10:30am Ceremony and ExpressionsForum — Panel Areaof Reconciliation9am-10:30amInstitutions of Memory - Panel Forum — Program Area9am-noonReconciliation Canada Reconciliation CanadaDialogue WorkshopDialogue Tent10amnoonSharing CircleForum — Sharing Circle Area10:30am-12:30pmCommissioners Sharing Panel Forum — Panel Area11am- Film Screening:12:30pm Hidden LegaciesForum — Program Area1pm-2:30pm1:15pm-3pm4pm-5pm5pm-6pmChurches Listening CircleCall to Gather: HonoraryWitness Reflections andExpression of ReconciliationSurvivor Birthday Partyand Closing CeremoniesReconciliation CanadaDialogue TentChurches Listeningto Survivors AreaForum — Panel AreaForum — Panel AreaTRC Indian Residential SchoolSurvivor Committee (IRSSC)This committee serves as an advisory body to the TRC.back L-R: John Banksland, John Morrisseau, Eugene Arcand, Madeleine Basile, Lottie May Johnson, Rebekah Uqi Williamsfront L-R: TRC Commissioner Chief Wilton Littlechild, Doris Young, Barney Williams Jr., Gordon Williams, Terri Brown

14 15SACREDFIREThe lighting of the Sacred Fire in June 2010 at the start ofthe TRC’s first National Event, in Winnipeg, MB, was anemotional beginning to a landmark event, and a symbolof strength and warmth for everyone who participated.Ashes from the Winnipeg Sacred Fire were transported by members ofthe Indian Residential School Survivor Committee to Inuvik, NT, wherethey were added to the Sacred Fire that burned during the TRC NorthernNational Event in June/July 2011. From there, ashes were taken to theAtlantic National Event in Halifax (October 2011), to the SaskatchewanNational Event in Saskatoon (June 2012), and to the Quebec NationalEvent in Montreal (April 2013).At the close of the Quebec National Event, ashes from the Sacred Firewere entrusted to Barney Williams, BC Representative of the TRC SurvivorCommittee. They will be added to the Sacred Fire that will burn inVancouver for the duration of the TRC BC National Event.Date: Wednesday, September 18Begins: 6:30amLocation: Sacred Fire Site, PNEThe Lighting of the Sacred Fire happens before we begineach National Event to ensure that the Spirits and theTeachings guide and protect us while the Commissiondoes its work.Madeleine Basile, Quebec representative on the TRC Survivor Committee, transfers the sacred ashes toBC representative Barney Williams. PHOTO: Melissa KnappPlease help us respect the protocolsof the Sacred Fire• The Firekeeper has been entrusted with tending to this flameand deserves the utmost respect.• Traditionally, it is the responsibility of the men to ensurethe Fire burns all day and all night.• A Sacred Fire is separate from a cooking or camp fire; pleasedo not throw garbage or cigarette butts into the Sacred Fire.• Please refrain from using drugs or alcohol near the Sacred Fireand for the duration of the TRC British Columbia National Event.If you wish to make an offeringto the Sacred Fire• If you wish to share a prayer or offering, please ask theFirekeeper about the protocols.

About the Program16 17The TRC National Event offers many waysfor you to share your truth with the Commission.Share Your TruthCommissioners Sharing PanelCommissioners Sharing Panels provide an opportunity for Survivors,Intergenerational Survivors, former teachers, those who worked in theschools, or anyone else who wants to speak publicly about the affect of theschools on their lives to share their truth directly with the Commissionersof the Truth and Reconcilication Commission of Canada.* Registration: begins September 18 at the Registration Tent* Members of the public and the media may witness.DATES: September 18-21BEGINS: See Program at a GlanceLOCATION: Forum — Panel AreaSharing CirclesFacilitated by members of the TRC Indian Residential School SurvivorsCommittee (IRSSC), Sharing Circles enable Survivors, their family members,former staff and anyone else affected by the residential schools to share theirtruth with others in a public setting.* Registration: begins September 18 at the Registration Tent* Members of the public and the media may witness.DATE: September 19-21Begins: See Program at a GlanceLocation: Forum — Sharing Circle AreaPrivate Statement GatheringThose wishing to share their experiences with the TRC in a private andconfidential setting can do so. The Private Statement Gathering Area, locatedat Rollerland, has individual rooms where private statements may be video oraudio recorded. Health Supports will be available.* Registration: begins September 18 at the Registration TentDATE: September 18-21Begins: See Program at a GlanceLocation: RollerlandPhoto: No. 610 Squadron Royal Canadian Air Cadets Summer Camp, Abbotsford, BC, 1956.Library and Archives Canada /a210715HOW TO Share Your Truthinformation sessionYour statement is very important and can help Canadiansunderstand the legacy of Residential Schools. Those who lived,attended and worked at the schools are given a voice throughthe statement gathering process.This workshop will provide information on how you canshare your experience. The three statement-gathering options willbe discussed: private statement-gathering; sharing circles; andCommissioners’ sharing panels. The role of Health Supports willalso be discussed.DATE: September 18Begins: 11am to noon, and 1 pm to 2 pmLocation: Forum — Circle Area

18 19Education DayW E ARE A L L O N EI F Y O U BE L I E V E I T, W A L K I T.The TRC is pleased to welcome students from across BritishColumbia to Education Day. Hundreds of students will participatein educational activities dealing with the residential schools.On Thursday, September 19, all displays and activities will bereserved for school groups until 2:15pmStudents will be given priority access for Education Dayactivities.Date: September 19, 9:30am to 2:30pmLOCATION: Coliseum and other PNE locationsW A L K F O R R E C ONC I L I A T I O N A N D A N E W W A Y F O R W A R D .S U N D A Y , S E P T 2 2 . D O W N T O W N V A N C O U V E RR E C ONC I L I A T I ONCANAD A . C APhoto: School band, Kuper Island School. British Columbia Archives, D-05991

2021MapsPACIFIC NATIONAL EVENT GROUNDSHASTINGSRACE TRACKPACIFICCOLISEUMLPSacred FireLearning PlaceInformationRegistrationEDEducation Day Tents(September 19 only)Food TentRENFREW STREETROLLERLANDPSGITALIANGARDENSSKATEPARKCSAGRODOMELPLIVESTOCKBUILDINGEDPRSCPAReconciliation CanadaDialogue Tents(September 18, 20 & 21 only)Program AreaSharing Circle AreaPanel AreaCSPSGSLInterpretation ServicesCultural Support- Health Canada DebriefFirst AidPrivateStatement GatheringSurvivor LoungeCSCSCSCSCSPRSCFORUMSLSANCTUARYPLAYLANDCSPAvHASTINGS STREETPARKING

Maps22 23The Learning PlaceEDBCPNE AGRODOMEA Church Archives & Listening to Survivors AreaB Project of the HeartC TRC Research AreaD Legacy of Hope DisplayE Vendors• Silversmith Craft• Wolf Pack Apparel• House of Ravens• Salmonberry Northwest Coast Art• Native & Creative• Spirit Dancer• Little Bear Trading• Kanatan Aski• Alpaca & Natural Fibers• A Bead at a Time• Laughing Crow Designs• Cree Spirit Crafts• Carol Henson-Nancy Dawson• House of Win-Chee• Joan I GlendaleEducation Displays• Traditional Salves• Mukwa Tipis• Etchiboy• Creations by Flo• Stewart Creations• HummingBird Event Productions• 3 Sisterz Accessoriez• Visual Medicine• Infinity Studio Designs• Dtugwe Art• Cheryl Bear Music• Mary Jane McDonough• Threads of Heritage• Dorothy Grant Ltd.A• Indian Residential SchoolsAdjudication Secretariat• National Research and Analysis,AANDC• Government of Canada• Library and Archives Canada• Reconcilitation Canada• Dr. Amy Bombay and theAboriginal Healing Foundation• Kairos Canada• Witness Blanket• Theytus Books• Alberni Indian ResidentialSchool Paintings• UNYBC• Inspirit Foundation• Vancouver Aboriginal CommunityPolicing Centre Society• Health Canada Communications• Battered Women’s Support Services• Aboriginal Healing Centre NetworkHOURS:September 18-20 | 9am-5pmSeptember 21 | 9am-3pm

24About the ProgramThe Learning PlaceDisplaysThrough posters, photographs and videos, you can explore the history ofresidential schools in Canada, with a particular focus on the experiencefrom British Columbia. The TRC Research team, Archivists from theAnglican, United, Presbyterian and Catholic churches, and Library andArchives Canada will be on site to share information and collections.Churches Listening TO SURVIVORS AreaThis is a supportive place where Survivors and their family members canshare their experience with church representatives (Anglican, Presbyterian,Catholic and United Church) and receive a personal apology.100 Years of LOSS DisplayDeveloped by the Legacy of Hope Foundation, this display is aimed atraising awareness about the history and legacy of residential schools.More specifically, it’s designed to sensitize ane educate young Canadiansincluding Aboriginal,non-Aboriginal, and new Canadians, challengedstereotypes, and contribute to shifting opinions that foster inquiry,dialogue and action.VENDORSArts & Craft Vendors will have items for sale.DATES: September 18-20, 9am to5 pmSeptember 21, 9am to 3pmEducational DisplaysSee page 23 for a complete list.Location: AgrodomeTheMissing ChildrenPhoto:Funeral procession, Kenora, Ontario 1941. / Archives de la Société historique de Saint-Boniface,Collection générale de la SHSB, SHSB 1274ProjectWorking with Survivors and Aboriginal organizations,the TRC’s Missing Children Project is documenting thedeaths and the burial places of children who died whileattending a residential school. To date, the TRC hasidentifed the names of, or information about, more than3000 childern who died of disease or accident.Visit the Missing Children booth in the Learning Place.25DATES: September 18-20, 9am to 5pmSeptember 21, 9am to 3pmLocation: AgrodomePhoto:Transporting students to or from Christie Roman Catholic school on Meares Island.British Columbia Archives / aa-00928

26About the ProgramWednesday, September 18SURVIVORS’ WALK AND PROCESSIONJoin a procession of Survivors, their families and community members,and others for a historic procession from the Sacred Fire site on the PNEgrounds to the Coliseum.DATE: September 18Begins: 8amLocation: Sacred Fire site, PNEWELCOME TO THE TERRITORY, OPENING CEREMONIESand INDUCTION OF Honorary WITNESSESJoin First Nations leaders and other representatives who will welcomeSurvivors and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada toVancouver for the BC National Event. This will be followed by the inductionof five Honorary Witnesses – prominent public figures who will bear witnessto the truths of the residential school Survivors and share with others whatthey have heard and learned.DATE: September 18Begins: 9amLocation: ColiseumRECONCILIATION DIAGLOGUE. Be the Change:Young People Healing the Past and Building the FutureJoin this cross-cultural dialogue among young panelists who are facingthe intergenerational impacts of human rights violations such as theresidential schools, Holocaust, Japanese internment and Chinese headtax – and turning reconciliation into action. Co-hosted by the InspiritFoundation and the TRC.DATE: September 18Begins: 11amLocation: ColiseumHOW TO Share Your Truth information sessionYour statement can help Canadians understand the legacy of ResidentialSchools. Those who were affected by the schools are given a voice throughthe statement gathering process.This workshop will provide information on how you can share your experiencethrough private statement gathering, a sharing circle or a Commissioners’sharing panel. The role of Health Supports will also be discussed.DATE: September 18Begins: 11am-noon & 1pm-2pmLocation: Forum – Circle AreaCreating & Sharing Digital StoriesDigital storytelling is the art of combining oral tradition with digital technology.These digital stories by women and men reveal the emotional detachment ofintergenerational survivors from their parents, their reconnection with them,and their movement towards spiritual healing for families and communities.DATE: September 18BEGINS: 1pmLOCATION: Forum – Program AreaSURVIVORS IN SOLIDARITYRobert Waisman survived the horrors of the Buchenwald concentration campto become a successful businessman, a community leader and a committededucator. In this special presentation, he shares personal and powerfullessons about the perils of hate, racism and indifference.DATE: September 18BEGINS: 1:30pmLOCATION: Forum – Panel AreaFROM THE HEART:ENTER INTO THE JOURNEY FOR RECONCILIATIONThis BC-based community arts project offers non-Indigenous Canadiansa creative way to take personal responsibility in the work of truth-tellingand reconciliation. Director Will Weigler discusses the project’s pilot andupcoming productions.DATE: September 18BEGINS: 3pmLocation: Forum – Program AreaCALL TO GATHERCome together for a summary of the day’s activities, Expressions ofReconciliation, and any announcements about activities to come.The day’s Honorary Witnesses will reflect on their experiences.DATE: September 18Begins: 4pmLocation: Coliseum27

About the Program28 29Thursday, September 19it matters to me: A TOWN HALL ON RECONCILIATIONTake part in a moderated dialogue about reconcilication and why it mattersto each of us. Special guests will begin the discussion. After that, the mic isopen and you’re invited to have your say.Dates: September 19Begins: 1pmLocation: Forum — Panel AreaCall to GatherCome together for a summary of the day’s activities, Expressions ofReconciliation, and any announcements about activites to come.The day’s Honorary Witnesses will reflect on their experiences.Dates: September 19Begins: 4pmLocation: ColiseumFREE CONCERTFeaturing: Award-winning songwriter & entertainer George Leach with specialguests Inez Jasper, Zaccheus, Uzume Taiko, Leanne Goose, bitterly divine,Gary Fjellgaard, Royal Academy of Bhangra, and Shot of Scotch.Dates: September 19Begins: 7amLocation: ColiseumDaily ProgrammingReconciliationLunchChurch sponsors have come together to provide a complimentary lunchfor Survivors. All Survivors who register for the TRC National Event willreceive a complimentary voucher. Simply provide your voucher to any ofthe concession stands on the PNE grounds. Then join us at the Food Tent.If you’re not a Survivor but would like to attend, please bring your lunchto the Food Tent.Dates: September 18-21Begins: 11:30am - 1:30pmLocation: Food Tent* The ‘lazy cross’ depicted on thejersey is the brand of the historicAlkali Lake Ranch where mosthockey players on the Bravesteam worked.

30 31About the ProgramFriday, September 20INDUCTION OF Honorary WITNESSESA highlight of TRC National Events is the induction of Honorary Witnesses,prominent public figures who undertake to bear witness to the truths ofthe residential school Survivors and share what they have heard and learnedwith others.Date: September 20Begins: 9amLocation: Forum – Panel AreaWHY MEMORY MATTERS: Recognition as a Key to the FutureReconciliation is not about forgetting, but about more active ways ofremembering. Future relationships will not be fully functional if wedo not share an understanding of the causes of our current reality. Inthis session, we consider why so few people have known about IndianResidential School history, and what having a shared understandingenables us to do.Date: September 20Begins: 9amLocation: Forum – Program AreaHonorary Witness Talking CircleThe TRC’s mandate calls for “ongoing reconciliation” involving survivors,governments, churches and “the people of Canada”. Many prominentcitizens are taking up the challenge as TRC “Honorary Witnesses”. Theyjoin Survivors and others to exchange personal experiences of facing andsharing residential school truths. What ideas and actions can help move usforward in reconciliation?Date: September 20Begins: 9:30amLocation: Forum – Panel AreaRECONCILIATION AND THE ARTSSome of the most eloquent voices responding to the legacies ofresidential school have been those of Aboriginal artists. Throughliterature, film, theatre, paintings, sculpture, dance, music, and more, theyhave offered powerful testimony of oppression and resistance. This panelexplores how such creative expression can deepen our understanding ofthe challenges and possibilities of reconciliation.Reconciling Indigenous Healingand Health Education LeadershipSeven health practitioners – Indigenous and non-Indigenous – discusshow local protocols guide the reconciliation of health education andcommunities. Their strategies integrate Aboriginal land-based healingpractices and promote self-care with community knowledge holders,health practitioners and students/clients.DATE: September 20BEGINS: 1pmLOCATION: Forum – Program AreaCall to gatherCome together for a summary of the day’s activities, Expressions ofReconciliation, and any announcements about activities to come. The day’sHonorary Witnesses will reflect on their experiences.Date: September 20Begins: 4pmLocation: Forum – Panel AreaTalent nightCalling all performers — share your gifts! Bring your drum, song and your voiceto the stage for an evening of laughter, sharing and inspiration. Register to takepart at the Registration Tent.Date: September 20Begins: 7pmLocation: Forum – Panel AreaDate: September 20Begins: 10amLocation: Forum – Program AreaPhoto: Carpentry shop, Kamloops Indian Residential School, 1958-59. Basil Fox /Library and Archives Canada / PA-185-652

About the Program32 33Saturday, September 21INSTITUTIONS OF MEMORYThis summer, the TRC and University of Manitoba signed an agreementto establish a National Research Centre. In this session, representatives ofthe University of Manitoba, Algoma University, Nipissing University andUniversity of British Columbia discuss among themselves and with audiencemembers their aspirations, commitments and the future direction ofresearch, education and public information on Indian Residential Schools.Date: September 21BEGINS: 9amLOCATION: Forum — Program AreaHonouring Women’s Wisdom:Pathways of Truth, Resilience and ReconciliationAboriginal women are inspiring models of resilience who work to addresslegacy issues even as they revitalize matriarchal systems, cultural traditionsand laws that ensured gender equity prior to colonization.Panelists reflect on the reclaiming of women’s wisdom and ways to help createa Canada that includes justice and equity for Aboriginal women and girls.DATE: September 21BEGINS: 1pmLOCATION: Forum – Program AreaAdditional ProgrammingFilm ScreeningsA variety of films will be screened during the British Columbia NationalEvent, including the feature-length We Were Children (September 20 at4pm), newly released by Eagle Vision, Entertainment One, and theNational Film Board. Complete list of films and screening times will beposted online and in the screening venue.DATES:September 19, 3pmSeptember 20, 11:30amSeptember 20, 4pmSeptember 21, 11amLocation: Forum — Program AreaRECONCILIATION CANADA DIALOGUE WORKSHOPSShare, discuss visions for a better future, and develop individual and collectiveReconciliation Action Plans in this three-hour Reconciliation Canada workshopdesigned to engage Canadians in dialogue to revitalize relationships, increaseunderstanding of our shared history, and explore reconciliation. Participantsinclude Residential School Survivors, community leaders, multi-cultural andfaith groups, and other interested community members.DATES:September 18, 1pmSeptember 20, 9am and 1pmSeptember 21, 9am and 1pmLOCATION: Reconciliation CanadaDialogue TentsCALL TO GATHER, REFLECTIONS BY HonoraryWITNESSES, AND SURVIVOR BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONThe final Call to Gather features reflections by Honorary Witnesses, and acelebration to acknowledge all of the Survivors who were never able tocelebrate their birthdays while attending residential school. The TRC andspecial guests would like to wish you all a Happy Birthday!Date: September 21Begins: 3:30pmLocation: Forum – Panel AreaCHURCHES LISTENING CIRCLESAs well as the TRC Sharing Circles taking place in the Forum, Survivors havethe opportunity to participate in Listening Circles run by the Churches andheld in the Churches Listening to Survivors Area. Each Listening Circle will befacilitated by an Aboriginal church leader and include up to eight Survivors aswell as leaders from the Anglican, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian and UnitedChurches. Statements will be video-recorded and included with statementsgathered by the TRC.DATES: September 19, 20 and 21BEGINS: 1:15pmLOCATION: Churches Listeningto Survivors AreaEXPRESSIONS OF RECONCILIATIONIndividuals, organizations and representatives of the parties to the IndianResidential Schools Settlement Agreement will make statements, presentations,or apologies directly to Survivors.DATES AND LOCATION: September 18-21; See Schedule at a Glance for details

3435About the ProgramImportant Information About ServicesSL SURVIVOR LOUNGEThis is a space where Survivors are welcome to rest and relax. It is open all day.DATES: September 18-21HOURS: 9am-5pmLOCATION: Hastings RoomCS Cultural Support Area for survivorsThis is a designated area for event participants to access Elders who canprovide cultural support services.Dates: September 18–21HOURs: 9am – 5pmLocation: Health Canada CulturalSupport TentsHS Health Support On SiteHealth Canada Health Support Workers are available on site. Wearingred vests and green vests, they are here to provide immediate supportthrough individual or family counseling, cultural supports such as Elders, orAboriginal health support workers who will listen and provide information.First Aid and ParamedicsHOURs: September 18 - 2pm to 6pmSeptember 19 and 20 - 8am to 9:30pmSeptember 21 – 8am to 6pmLocation: SW corner, Concourse level,ColiseumInformation BoothSTRC Staff and Volunteers will be on site to assist you with any questionsyou may have. Also located here is transportation information and theLost and Found.hours: 9am – 5pm Location: Gate 1, Gate 4,and at Registration TentInterpretation ServicesAll activities that take place in the Forum — Panel Area will offerinterpretation services in the following languages: Secwépemc; Líl’wat;Halq’eméylem; French and English. Professional Sign Language Interpreterswill also be on site.Location: Forum — Panel AreaCMYKThe shape of the TRC logo— a circle — reflects the Circle of Life.In the Circle, we join together to share truth.The flames sustain life in the Circle and provide safety andsustenance. Most importantly, the flames shed light on what needsto be shared in the Circle — the experiences of those affected byIndian Residential Schools.The seven flames that make up the circle represent the seven sacredteachings: love, respect, courage, honesty, wisdom, humility andtruth. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission draws on eachof those teachings in the work of truth-gathering, truth-telling,reconciliation, and each TRC National Event is dedicated to oneof them. The British Columbia National Event is dedicated to thesacred teaching of honesty.To get more informationabout available health supportscall toll free:Health Canada British Columbia RegionRegional help line: (604) 658-2835The 24-HOUR NATIONAL CRISIS LINEis also available to provideimmediate emotional assistance:1-866-925-4419Teletypewriter: 1-800-267-1245 (Health Canada)

36photo Fred Cattroll“I call on all Canadians– elders and youth, Aboriginal or not– to commit to reconciliationand breaking down the wall ofindifference. This is not just a dream,it is a collective responsibility.”-Rt. Hon. Michaëlle Jean, former Governor General of Canada,is the TRC’s first Honorary Witness.Honorary Witnesses are called uponto be the keepers of history when anevent of historic significance occurs.Bearing witness to the thought provoking storiesof residential school Survivors helps to validatethe survivor experience.Welcome to new TRC Honorary Witnesses:TO BE ANNOUNCEDHonorary Witnesses are then asked to store andcare for the history they have witnessed and mostimportantly, to share it with their own communitywhen they return home.

AcknowledgementsSpecial thanks to all Survivors who traveled from near and far to share theirtruth and to everyone who has come to witness this important occasion.On behalf of the Survivors and the TRC, we would like to thank all thosewho supported and contributed to the success of the National Event.The UnitedChurch of CanadaThe AnglicanChurch of CanadaOMI LacombeCanadaSisters ofthe Child JesusThe PresbyterianChurch in CanadaWymanUnited ChurchKAIROSCanadaWe would also like to express our appreciation to the volunteers that contributedto the success of the TRC National Event.For a complete listing of the organizations that contributed visit trc.ca