On September 25, South Riverdale Community Health Centre (SRCHC) and the Ralph Thornton Community Centre (RTCC) came together to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
“It was a privilege to take part in this special day of reflection, remembrance, and learning — a time to honour the many Survivors of residential schools, their families, and communities, and to remember the children who never returned home,” said SRCHC CEO, Shannon Wiens. “It was also a time for connection, listening, and shared commitment to truth, healing, and reconciliation, made even more impactful in partnership.”
Welcoming more than 150 people, the courtyard at 955 Queen Street East was transformed into a vibrant Indigenous Marketplace featuring local artisans: Amanda Spanish (Cedar Woman Traditional Crafts), Native Arts Society, Joseph Sagaj, SunHeart Rises Designs, and Tanya Gluvakov (Roots + Raven). Each of them brought not only beautiful creations to sell, but also living connections to culture, tradition, and community.
Guests also had the opportunity to take part in a Sweetgrass Infusion Workshop led by Tanya. Dozens of guests attended the workshop to learn about the sacred plant and the importance of accessible, smoke-free alternatives to traditional medicines. The event also included a traditional smudging ceremony by Jim Seegers and a powerful singing and drumming circle led by Cathy Walker, an Ojibwe frontline worker, whose final lullaby was dedicated to all the children impacted by Canada’s residential school system.
Community partners, including the Toronto Public Library (TPL), South Riverdale Child-Parent Centre (SRCPC), Don Valley Community Legal Services (DVCLS), and George Brown College shared information, activities, and resources, adding to the spirit of collaboration. The day culminated in a shared Indigenous community meal, with more than 90 individual meals shared and prepared by Chef Charles Catchpole of Charger Catering, who trained at George Brown College. Charles is an Anishinaabe chef whose menu celebrated Indigenous food sovereignty and the power of nourishment to bring people together.
What made this day so special was the feeling of community created by our neighbours, clients, and partners who gathered together in respect, reflection, and hope. We’re deeply grateful to the Elders, Knowledge Keepers, artists, and community members who shared their gifts, and to everyone who joined us with open hearts and minds.
Together, we will continue the work of truth and reconciliation — listening, learning, and walking forward in community.