Town of St. Marys to commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2026

The Town of St. Marys will commemorate National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with a week of activities focused on education, reflection and healing.

The St. Marys Museum is currently showcasing Talking About Treaty 29, an exhibit that examines the creation of Treaty 29, also known as the Huron Tract Purchase of 1827. The exhibit explores the history of treaties and the ongoing rights and responsibilities that continue to shape the area now known as St. Marys. It will be available during regular museum hours until November 30, 2026. On September 30, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., the Museum will also display The Truth and Reconciliation Banner created by community members and finished by artist Jeffrey “Red” George in 2021.

The public is invited to the St. Marys Public Library for a series of five virtual Lunch and Learn sessions hosted by the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. Sessions will take place daily from September 21 to 25, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.

On Wednesday, September 30, the Stratford Falstaff Family Centre invites the community to join educator and facilitator Patsy Day, an Elder from Oneida Nation of the Thames and member of the Turtle Clan, for a sunrise ceremony and Indigenous teachings from 7:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The gathering will take place at the fire pit and medicine wheel garden.

Later that day, the St. Marys Public Library and the Friendship Centre will livestream the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation broadcast from Parliament Hill beginning at 12:00 p.m.

The National Truth and Reconciliation flag will be flown at Town facilities from September 28 to October 2.

Residents are encouraged to wear orange shirts on September 30 to honour Residential School Survivors and support the message that Every Child Matters. Those wishing to purchase an orange shirt are encouraged to support Indigenous-owned businesses.

The Town of St. Marys is grateful to the many individuals who have helped deepen our understanding and commitment to reconciliation. We are especially thankful for the guidance and teachings of Patsy Day, who continues to support us on this journey.

For a full schedule of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation events, visit Discover St. Marys Truth and Reconciliation Events.

- 30 -

For media inquiries:

Kaleigh Siegner-Robertson, Corporate Communications Coordinator
519-284-2340 ext. 432 | krobertson@town.stmarys.on.ca