Saskatoon hosts 'Rock Your Roots' Walk for National Day of Truth and Reconciliation

In Saskatoon, this important day began with a remarkable display of unity as thousands of individuals came together for the "Rock Your Roots Walk."

Sept. 30 is Canada's National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, a day when Canadians reflect on the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and work towards healing and understanding.

In Saskatoon, this important day began with a remarkable display of unity as thousands of individuals came together for the "Rock Your Roots Walk."

This event garnered widespread support from people of all backgrounds, who gathered to embrace their local cultures in solidarity with the Indigenous community. Rick Daniels, a residential school survivor and one of the event's organizers, pointed out the significance of the day.

"We're remembering children that never got to go home from the residential school system, and never got to go home to their communities. But it's also a day as residential school survivors where we get to meet each other, reconnect with old friends, and embrace our community," Daniels said, laying out what the day meant to him.

What made the "Rock Your Roots Walk" particularly unique was the encouragement for participants of all backgrounds to dress in their cultural attire, resulting in a vibrant display of diverse traditions.

The day's activities extended beyond the walk. Walkers congregated in significant numbers at Victoria Park, where they participated in speeches, shared snacks, and observed a moment of silence.

Truth and Reconciliation Day is not yet recognized as a statutory holiday in most provinces, including Saskatchewan, despite its federal status. Some attendees expressed the need for provincial recognition to ensure broader observance of the day.