We are honoured to have been a part of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation for the City of Vernon. At this historic event, the flags of the Syilx Nation and the Okanagan Nation Alliance were raised above Vernon City Hall for the first time!
We were grateful for the blessings from the Elders of the Syilx Nation, Pauline Gregoire-Archachan and Patricia Gregoire, accompanied by her great-grandson Antoine. Their words were impactful to this event.
It was moving to see members of the community step up to read the 94 Calls to Action. As we reflect on the devastating impacts of the residential school system, and the survivors of this cultural genocide, we continue to remember the children who their community continued to grieve.
We concluded the event in silence to the drumming of Elder Randy Sam, member of the Tk’emlùpsemc (Suswap) Nation.
It's our hope that our community will continue to carry this spirit of togetherness and reconciliation each and every day.