Hundreds of people across New Brunswick gathered Wednesday to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Communities from Moncton to Fredericton hosted events focused on Indigenous culture and resilience. You will see the impact of these gatherings as elders and youth share traditions. According to CBC News, the day featured round dances, drumming and powerful speeches.

Celebrating Culture in Moncton

In downtown Moncton, members of the Milliea family from Elsipogtog First Nation led a Mi’kmaw round dance. Joan Milliea drummed and sang for the crowd. She spoke about the damage the Canadian residential school system caused. The system aimed to eliminate Indigenous cultures.

“Colonization had already taken away our culture, our rituals and ceremonies,” Milliea said. “When I went to school, I was ashamed.”

Her daughter, Manuella Caravantes, shared a different experience. She drummed and danced, expressing deep pride in her heritage. She aims to pass this pride to her own daughter.

“We are beautiful and we are resilient,” Caravantes said. “We’ve taken everything that Canada has thrown at us, and we’ve pushed through, and we’re still here.”

Connecting With Allies in Fredericton

Fredericton’s Officers’ Square filled with supporters wearing bright orange shirts. The Under One Sky Friendship Centre hosted the event. It featured traditional dancing, singing and local vendors.

Chief Allan Polchies of Sitansisk, also known as St. Mary’s First Nation, emphasized the importance of community support.

“Today is about reflecting,” Polchies said. “It’s also about gathering. More importantly, it’s about connecting with our allies.”

Polchies outlined clear steps you must take to engage with reconciliation. He encourages New Brunswickers to support local Indigenous businesses that create traditional medicines and regalia. He also suggests learning Indigenous languages.

Bridging the Generational Gap

The events highlighted the vital connection between elders and youth. High school student Hannah Crosby attended the Fredericton gathering to deepen her understanding of Indigenous culture. She plans to share this knowledge with her classmates.

Aazallis Moulton works with Under One Sky. She wants to see more opportunities for these generational connections.

“Our children are the ones that are gonna carry it to the next generations and our elders are the ones with the knowledge,” Moulton said.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation?

Communities host events featuring traditional drumming, dancing and speeches. These gatherings honor residential school survivors and celebrate Indigenous resilience.

How do I support reconciliation in New Brunswick?

You support local Indigenous businesses, buy traditional goods and take time to learn Indigenous languages like Mi’kmaw and Wolastoqey.

Why is youth involvement important at these events?

Youth carry Indigenous traditions forward. Connecting young people with elders ensures cultural knowledge survives and thrives for future generations.