September 30 is National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour residential school survivors, remember the children who never returned home, and acknowledge the ongoing impacts of the residential school system on Indigenous Peoples, families and communities. It is a time to pause, reflect, and consider our collective responsibility to remember the truth of our shared history and continue the work of reconciliation. In Maple Ridge, the community will come together a few days earlier to begin that reflection. On September 27, Memorial Peace Park will be the setting for Honouring the Truth: Past, Present and Future, a free, family-friendly community event recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation taking place from 9:30am – 3pm. The event has been planned under the leadership of Katzie First Nation Chief Grace George and Council, in partnership with Fraser River Indigenous Society, BCSPOKES and PLEA. It has brought together more than 30 organizations and businesses through the planning process, and has over 50 organizations, artisans and vendors participating on the day itself. A Day of Learning, Culture and Connection The day will feature Indigenous drummers and dancers, guest speakers from local First Nations and Indigenous communities, a Truth and Reconciliation learning tent, and opportunities for reflection and healing led by Indigenous Elders from Katzie First Nation. Visitors can participate in free orange shirt painting, contribute to a community artwork designed by Indigenous artist Rosalie Dipscu, enjoy free bannock from The Bannock Queen, and support lndigenous and local vendors. Most importantly, the event provides an opportunity to hear Indigenous voices, deepen our understanding of the history and legacy of residential schools, and reflect on how each of us can contribute to reconciliation. Finding Opportunities in Your Community National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is ultimately a day of remembrance. It asks us to acknowledge painful truths, honour those affected, and reflect on our responsibilities moving forward. Whether you attend the gathering in Maple Ridge, find an event in your own community, explore a book recommended in Ernie’s Picks, support Indigenous artists and businesses, or make a donation to organizations such as the Fraser River Indigenous Society or the Indian Residential School Survivors Society, there are many meaningful ways to do so. However we choose to mark the day, what matters most is that we remember, reflect, and recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of reconciliation. Thank you for reading, Tim Veresh, CEO | 
