Celebrate, participate & learn this Reconciliation Week

September 25 marks the official start of Reconciliation Week in Lethbridge and there are lots of opportunities for community celebration and learning throughout the week.

Opening Ceremonies
This year's official opening ceremonies will provide a new way for the community to engage in Reconciliation. Following remarks from invited guests and elected officials, a community round dance will be held on Monday, September 25 at 10 a.m. at the Civic Track located behind City Hall.

Reconciliation Awards night
Monday will also see the inaugural Reconciliation Awards night hosted at City Hall. A number of community members and organizations will be recognized for their outstanding dedication to building stronger relationships anchored in trust, respect and equality in the Reconciliation space. Tickets for this event are now sold out.

Orange Shirt Design 2023
This year’s Orange Shirt was designed by Blackfoot artist, Deserae Ootoh’kotskinna (Yellow Horn) Akik’inakii (Stars twinkling at the same time). Akik’inakii’s design signifies the power Indigenous children hold presently in Indigenous ceremony as opposed to the Residential School ceremony. 

Blackfoot artist, Deserae Ootoh’kotskinna Akik’inakii's orange shirt design

Orange shirts will be available for purchase by donation at Opokaa’sin Early Intervention Society starting on Wednesday, September 20, with all funds raised going back to the Society. 

Community film viewing

The City and Reconciliation Lethbridge Advisory Committee (RLAC) are proudly sponsoring the free screening of the film, Bones of Crows, at the Movie Mill from September 22 – 28. The film can be viewed at no cost by the public at 12:30 and 6:30 p.m. daily throughout the week. The film tells the story of one woman and her siblings who were forced into the residential school system. It shows their story and fight for survival which eventually shapes their family for generations to come.

Events and more
Events and opportunities for gathering are happening across the city starting Thursday, September 21. To see the full list of events and activities, head to the Reconciliation Lethbridge Facebook page, or click here.

The City of Lethbridge will observe National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Monday, October 2.

For Public Inquiries:

Call 311 | Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.