'These stories are real': Edmonton marks first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Edmontonians rallied, planted trees, and reflected as they observed Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Edmontonians rallied, planted trees, and reflected as they observed Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.

Flags were lowered at the legislature to half-mast and a new flag for truth and reconciliation was unveiled. As well, a new tree was planted on the grounds to represent growth, stability, renewal and life.

Indigenous groups say a reconciliation garden is set to be planted at the same site.

Hundreds of plants were given away at Hawrelak Park by Edmonton’s Root for Trees initiative to plant wildflowers or trees as an act of reconciliation.

“I’m so grateful and honoured that Edmontonians are coming out to support Root for Trees, and to support Indigenous communities and the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation,” said Ashlyn Renner with Root for Trees. “This is the first time we’re doing something like this with Root for Trees, and I’m so happy that it turned out so well.”

For the past 75 days, gatherings at three unmarked gravesites in the Edmonton area hosted events.

“A lot of healing, telling stories, reconnecting to tradition and culture,” Lorelei Mullings said. “My ancestors, those unmarked graves, I think about them today. I’m their voice.”