Round Dance during Truth and Reconciliation ceremony in Sexsmith, photo courtesy Everything GP Staff 

By Erika Rolling

National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

First National Day of Truth and Reconciliation ceremony in Sexsmith

Sep 30, 2022 | 4:00 PM

Residents of Sexsmith gathered on the town’s Main Street for the second annual National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

It was the towns first official event for the newest federally recognized day.

Mayor of Sexsmith Kate Potter attended the morning ceremony. She says; “We are reminded as a community of the need for continued reconciliation and healing. We must work together as Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike, and I am grateful for being welcomed to be a partner moving forward.”

She spoke to the crowd saying; “Together we are stronger and when I see us gathered together, it gives us hope that we are building a better future for everyone in our community, regardless of background.”

Mayor of Sexsmith Kate Potter

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Elder Len Auger spoke to the crowd in the Main Street gazebo saying; “It’s hard to reconcile if you didn’t hear the truth.”

Auger says he grew up in the Wabasca area and did not attend a residential school, but his family members as well as his father did.

“I used to sit around the campfire and listen to my grandpa and uncles tell stories and at that time those stories… I didn’t realize that some very, very hurtful.””

“We need to work together. It’s not a one-way street,” he says.

“Reconciliation remind us it’s an ongoing process; not an event, not de-colonizing our for respect for our relationships and building news ones. It’s based on understanding and respect, it’s empowering for all of us… Indigenous and non-Indigenous alike.”

Auger says it is important for people to know about the treaties; the reasons they were signed, the people involved, and all surrounding aspects starting at a young age.

Len Auger speaks on National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

Len Auger speaks on National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

Elder in Residence at the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre, Loretta Parenteau-English performed traditional dances after speeches with Bluebird Troop dancers.

She sang and drummed a traditional prayer and warrior song with her grandson during the ceremony. Everyone then joined in a round dance before enjoying baked and fried bannock and tea.

Elder Loretta Parenteau-English dancing with Bluebird Troop dancers