(Huntsville, ON) - Hope Arises Project Inc., the Huntsville Public Library, and the Town of Huntsville invite the community to come together on September 30 to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day. This important day honours the children who never returned home from residential schools, as well as Survivors, their families, communities, and generations impacted by the residential school system. It is a time to reflect on the tragic history and enduring legacy of residential schools, acknowledge the profound harm caused, and work to advance the ongoing journey toward truth, healing, and reconciliation.  

The day’s itinerary will include the following, at River Mill Park:  

Following the Remembrance Walk, guest speaker remarks and a closing friendship dance will take place back at River Mill Park. 
 
Flag Raising
The Survivors' Flag will be raised on Monday, September 28 at noon at Huntsville Civic Square and will remain raised until October 2. This commemorative flag was created by Survivors, to honour Survivors, families, and communities impacted by the residential school system in Canada, and to share their expression of remembrance across the nation. 

Sacred Fire
As a very special addition to this year’s activities, a Sacred Fire will be lit at River Mill Park at 10:00 a.m. The fire represents a connection between the physical and spiritual worlds and provides a place where people can sit quietly, listen, share teachings, offer tobacco or other appropriate offerings according to protocol, and simply be present. 

Wear Orange  
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is observed on Orange Shirt Day. The community is encouraged to wear orange on September 30 to honour the Survivors, their families, and the lost children of residential schools.