September 30th marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
On this day we honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Widespread public commemoration and acknowledgement of the tragic and painful history, continued impact, and intergenerational trauma of Canada's residential school legacy is a vital component of the reconciliation process. The University of Waterloo and the Office of Indigenous Relations continue to amplify that truth as we build towards reconciliation. We will also highlight the beauty and resilience of indigeneity, and the strengthening of bonds with allies as we navigate this complex and meaningful day.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Waterloo 2024
In September of 2022, the University of Waterloo proudly committed to reconciliation, indigenization and decolonization across the entirety of our institution.
We invite and encourage you all to attend National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events at Waterloo on Monday, September 30. All of the ceremonies will start and end at the B.C Matthews Hall (BMH) Green. The entire University community is welcome to attend and observe all of the ceremonies throughout the day as their schedule allows.
Program for Monday September 30 *all times approximate
- 7:00 AM | Sunrise Ceremony
- 9:30 AM | Indigenous Gathering Space Opening and Commitment Polishing Ceremony
- 11:00 AM | National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Remarks and Walk around Ring Road
- 12:30 PM | Soup and Bannock Lunch, Drumming and Dance
We kindly ask that you register for this event to ensure we have enough food for all attendees.
Resources for learning
For resources and more information, the Office of Indigenous Relations invites you to visit our National Day of Truth and Reconciliation webpage.