Treaty 6 Recognition Day

More than 100 Holyrood and Strathearn neighbours from all different backgrounds and ages gathered to celebrate being Treaty 6 people and the peace and hope we share for our common life together on this land. 

Following a ceremony with a smudge, a song from the Holyrood Mennonite Church and words of inspiration from our neighbours, the young and young at heart joined in a variety of traditional games. 

Much joy, laughter and hope were brought to the spirit of treaty. 

Our treaty is more than something of the past for us to read about or some obscure legal history. Our treaty is meant for partnership and is something in which we can be active participants right here and now.

More than a few people who took part in the Treaty Recognition Ceremony were moved to tears in acknowledging the past hurt and present harm of broken Treaty and in making a strong commitment in hope to be good partners moving forward. 

Before the drummer offered a traditional gathering song, he called us to "run forward together in love and trust that love and peace will follow for generations yet to come."

The Holyrood and Strathearn Community Leagues have a newly formed reconciliation committee which has received an anti-racism grant from the city. They were very happy to partner with St. Luke's in making this event happen for our neighbourhood.

Many who took part said that they hope for this to become an annual event for the neighbourhood.

Submitted by the Rev. Nick Trussell

Photos by Karen MacDonald