To commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Manitoba government is providing $50,000 to the Manitoba Museum to support programming that encourages meaningful awareness of the history and legacy of residential schools.
“In the spirit of reconciliation – through respect, engagement, understanding and action – the Manitoba government is honoured to support programming that amplifies Indigenous voices in the ongoing community dialogue about truth and reconciliation,” said Indigenous Reconciliation and Northern Relations Minister Alan Lagimodiere. “Special programming for the three-day event, offered in partnership with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation, will provide visitors with meaningful opportunities to learn about and reflect on the history and legacy of residential schools.”
The Manitoba Museum is offering free admission to the museum galleries, planetarium and science gallery from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day.
“As the identification of unmarked graves at former residential school sites has brought the legacy of these schools to the forefront of the national dialogue, the Manitoba government has re-affirmed and strengthened its commitment to reconciliation,” said Sport, Culture and Heritage Minister Andrew Smith. “We are honoured to support these programs that acknowledge past harms through commemorative and educational awareness activities.”
“The Manitoba Museum is grateful for the opportunity to be part of this important day,” said Rachel Erickson, director of learning and engagement, Manitoba Museum. “Last year, we were inspired by the response from Manitobans to expand their understanding of this difficult history, and take action towards reconciliation. We look forward to welcoming the community to the museum for learning, dialogue, and reflection.”
“I invite Manitobans of all ages to participate in this exceptional opportunity to learn about past and ongoing injustices, and to commit to building mutually respectful relationships, in the spirit of reconciliation,” said Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Wayne Ewasko.
Visitors are encouraged to wear orange clothing for the event, added Lagimodiere.