The Calgary Stampede observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30. There will be many community events on that date – consider attending one and wearing orange. If you are looking to learn more, here are a few resources to get you started:
Phyllis Webstad whose experience going to Residential School is the origin of Orange Shirt Day. There are many places selling orange shirts - be sure to check that revenue generated is reinvested in the work of Truth and Reconciliation. The Grey Eagle Resort & Casino Gift Shop and Moonstone Creation in Inglewood are two local sources if you are looking to buy one. Moonstone Creation also has a learn-to-bead kit for orange shirt pins.
Consider reading the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action and evaluate how some of the 94 Calls to Action might connect to your work.
Read the United Nations Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Use this resource to find out if you live near a former Residential School site.
Watch Indigenous documentaries such as The Pass System or We Were Children or some Indigenous-made animation films from the NFB.
Watch Standing Alone, a documentary about legendary Kainai cowboy Pete Standing Alone
Learn about land acknowledgments. The Calgary Stampede is situated on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Piikani, Kainai), Tsuut’ina, and Îyâxe Nakoda (Bearspaw, Chiniki, Goodstoney) First Nations as well as the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3. These lands have always been a gathering place and we are proud to continue that legacy.
Consider visiting Indigenous-created murals in downtown Calgary through the BUMP Festival. There are sites near the Stampede, including two created by Nathan Meguinis of the Tsuut’ina Nation, whose family has participated in Elbow River Camp since 1912.
Listen to Indigenous music like blues musician Celeigh Cardinal, country musician Armond Duck Chief, electronic band The Halluci Nation, or “We Were Here” by Aysanabee and Northern Cree as performed at the 2023 Juno Awards. Not sure where to start? Listen to Reclaimed on CBC to hear a variety of up-and-coming Indigenous musicians.
Watch Indigenous-created TV such as Tribal (a police drama) and Rutherford Falls (comedy).
Visit a regional Indigenous museum like Tsuut'ina Museum, Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, or Writing-on-Stone Provincial Park.
Looking to do upcoming holiday shopping? Consider visiting Christmas at the Nation December 15 – 17 at Seven Chiefs Sportsplex (christmasatthenation.ca) or visit Boychief Trading Post to pick up one of their signature blankets.
Some of the topics can be difficult or triggering. There are resources to support you if you need help.
The Indian Residential School Survivor 24-hour crises line: 1.866.925.4419