The City of Saint John is calling on all residents to join an Indigenous-led Healing Walk to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation this fall. This important community event provides a space for reflection, solidarity, and education.

Scheduled for Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM, the walk will take place along the Trans Canada Trail in Rockwood Park, proceeding rain or shine. The event is a collaboration between the City, Double Curve Media, and Indigenous community leaders, continuing a tradition that has become a vital part of Saint John’s observance of the day.

A Path to Healing and Understanding

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, observed annually on September 30, honors the children who never returned home from residential schools and acknowledges the survivors, their families, and communities. These institutions were designed to erase Indigenous culture and language, leaving a painful legacy that continues to affect generations.

The first Healing Walk in Saint John was organized by Indigenous community members on July 1, 2021. According to the official announcement from the City of Saint John, more than 1,500 residents walked through Rockwood Park that day, wearing orange shirts to honour the children. The event serves as a powerful call to action, urging the full implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

Event Details: What You Need to Know

Everyone is welcome to participate in this free event. It is an opportunity to listen, learn, and stand together with the Indigenous community.

• When: Tuesday, September 30, 2025, at 1:00 PM.
• Where: The walk begins at the Trans Canada Trail entrance in Rockwood Park.
• Cost: Free and open to all.
• What to Wear: Participants are encouraged to wear orange to show support.
• What to Bring: You are welcome to bring a hand drum.
• Weather: The walk will happen rain or shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is the Healing Walk?

The walk is on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, starting at 1:00 PM. It takes place on the Trans Canada Trail in Rockwood Park.

Is the event free?

Yes, the Healing Walk is free and open for everyone to attend.

What should I wear or bring?

You are encouraged to wear an orange shirt to show your support for residential school survivors. If you have a hand drum, you are welcome to bring it.

What happens if it rains?

The event will proceed as planned, rain or shine.

Why is this walk held?

The walk is held to honour the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. It is a time for the community to remember the children lost to the residential school system, support survivors, and commit to the ongoing journey of reconciliation.