The inaugural Miyo-wiciwitowin Day at Mosaic Stadium on Sept. 29 was an inspirational experience that brought our community together for a day of listening, learning and sharing.

It was an honour to be invited to share in the teaching of true Indigenous history. We were able to hear first-hand about the intergenerational trauma the residential schools caused.

Fully understanding the truth of the past provides us with an important step toward healing. This event has helped build a strong foundation of cultural awareness and will be a catalyst to creating a better future.

We all need to focus on the importance of education in reconciliation. This true learning experience will empower us to help people heal and ensure that we all make working toward reconciliation an everyday priority rather than just on designated days.

There remains a lot of work to be done on reconciliation. Last week helped us recognize our shared responsibility, and personally reminded me to recommit to the important work of reconciliation. I was reminded that even the smallest gesture can go a long way toward reconciliation.

I want to thank the community leadership who came together to create such an impactful day. This historic event showed the rest of Canada the strength and pride we have in Saskatchewan.

Miyo-wicîwitowin Day was a great first step to take on our long journey to Truth and Reconciliation, which in the long run will help to build a better country for Indigenous people and all Canadians.

Tony Playter

CEO Regina & District Chamber of Commerce

Support is available for anyone affected by their experience at residential schools and those who are triggered by these reports.

A national Indian Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for residential school survivors and others affected. People can access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line:

1-866-925-4419.