Recognizing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
BRACEBRIDGE, ON (September 23, 2026) – The Town of Bracebridge invites the community to come together in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Wednesday, September 30. A flag raising ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. at the Municipal Office, 1000 Taylor Court to honour the survivors of residential schools, their families, and the children who never returned home. Mayor Rick Maloney will share remarks.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day, is an opportunity for all Canadians to reflect on the ongoing impacts of the residential school system, learn from Indigenous voices, and reaffirm our commitment to reconciliation.
In addition to the Town’s ceremony, several local events are taking place to encourage education and reflection, including:
- Bracebridge Library
- Visit the book display featuring a selection of Indigenous authors and stories.
- First Nation Public Library Week takes place from October 4 to 10 and will include Indigenous programming like an Embroidered Metis Flower Workshop.
- Muskoka Discovery Centre
- September 30 at 7 p.m. - In honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a special screening of We Were Children, will take place, a powerful feature film directed by Tim Wolochatiuk. Learn more at realmuskoka.com/discovery-centre/mdc-programs/
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
- Virtual daily lunch and learn sessions will take place from September 21 to 25. Participate to UN-learn the myths of colonial history in Canada. Register at trw-svr.nctr.ca/lunch-and-learns/
- Wiigwaasi Jiimaanke
- Presented by Hope Arises, Wiigwaasi Jiimaanke is a traditional birchbark canoe build happening in River Mill Park, Huntsville. This cultural immersive bark-to-birthing experience is led by Indigenous master canoe builder Chuck Commanda.
On September 30, downtown businesses will display the Survivor’s Flag, Every Child Matters Flag or Every Child Matters t-shirts in their storefronts to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The Town of Bracebridge encourages all residents to wear orange on September 30, take part in community events, and engage in ongoing learning about truth and reconciliation.
Additional Resources:
About Bracebridge – The Town of Bracebridge is located in the Heart of Muskoka, the epitome of Canada’s Cottage Country. With a population in excess of 17,000 permanent residents that doubles during the summer months, the community has a diversified economy that is highlighted by strong construction, hospitality and professional sectors. Bracebridge is the steward of the cottage country brand and is teaching the world the power of living the Muskoka lifestyle in its spirit, the arts, food, home and recreation. The Town is positioned on the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole, and is recognized as Santa’s summer home.
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