As September comes to a close, we come together as a nation to learn, reflect, and honour Indigenous families, communities, and survivors for National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
For thousands of years, The Forks has been a gathering place for trade, ceremony, and connection among Indigenous peoples. Today, it stands proudly as a place that continues to bring the community together in a spirit of respect, learning, and reconciliation.
This year, The Forks will once again support the community in honour of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. On site, there will be traditional games, teachings, tours, and workshops. Each offers a way for everyone to reflect, learn, and participate in this meaningful day.
From traditional games and teachings to tours and workshops, there are many ways for everyone to reflect, learn, and take part in this meaningful day.
Sunday, September 28th
Chāpān Games
11:00 AM - 7:00 PM | CN Field and Stage
The Chāpān Circle of Elders remind us that healing can also be found through the medicine of laughter and play. The Chāpān Games bring together comedy, storytelling, traditional Indigenous games, Chāpān teachings, sharing circles, music, DJs, and more.
Food trucks will be on site, and free meals are generously provided by The Salvation Army, ensuring everyone can join in the fun.
Tuesday, September 30th, National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
SCO Healing Walk
10:00 AM | Oodena Circle
Join the Southern Chiefs’ Organization for their 5th annual Healing Walk. The day will begin at Oodena Circle with a pipe ceremony and reflections from Residential School Survivors and community leaders. At 11:00 AM, the walk will proceed to the RBC Convention Centre.
Medicine Bag Making
11:00 AM - 2:00 PM | Front of Manitoba Children’s Museum
Join Culture Days in front of The Children’s Museum to learn the tradition and meaning of Medicine Bags. Facilitated by Cree artisan Gloria Beckman, this family-friendly workshop uses simple, no-sew techniques, making it perfect for little hands.
Supplies are limited, but the teachings are endless. Register at the event table for a time slot, or simply stand by to listen, learn, and absorb the knowledge shared.
Free Indigenous Walking Tours
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM | The Forks Market
Discover the Indigenous history of The Forks with free walking tours led by Turtle Tours. Guided from the Cree and Ojibwe perspective, these tours highlight the significance of the rivers as gathering places, treaty history, and stories of resilience.
Tours will run at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM, and last approximately 45 minutes each.
Comfort and Reconcili‐ACTION
11:00 AM - 4:00 PM | Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Join Knowledge Keeper Marilyn Dykstra for a creative workshop that turns reflection into action. Participants will design and embellish a 4×4 felt square that represents their personal commitment to advancing reconciliation over the next year. Finished pieces will be photographed and shared as part of the museum’s Truth and Reconciliation Day: Comfort and Reconcili-ACTION project.
Free Tea, Bannock, and Presentations
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM | Agowiidiwinan Centre
Spend the day at the Agowiidiwinan Centre engaging in conversation, reflection, and learning around treaties and reconciliation. Enjoy tea and bannock throughout the day, with kids activities starting at 11:30 AM.
The afternoon features insightful presentations:
1:30 PM - Historic and Contemporary Issues Surrounding the Treaties with Dr. Jean Friesen
3:30 PM - Treaties and Reconciliation with Brenda Gunn