National Day for Truth and Reconciliation at Arts Commons, on Sept 30, 2023, had over 1200 attendees, visiting the market, enjoying the films, and witnessing the powerful stories of the residential school survivors that make up the Elders Story Project. Arts Commons and the Elders Knowledge Circle Society would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended with open minds and open hearts. Reconciliation is a long journey and it’s understandable that everyone is at a different place on the path. With a strong commitment to supporting the journey, we have included a Q&A below with some of the questions we received after the event.

Why wasn’t there a set schedule of speakers?

Many of the residential school survivors that make up the Elders Knowledge Circle have never told their stories publicly, and as you can imagine, their trauma can be reawakened by revisiting their experiences, especially in this type of setting. One may feel prepared to share until they are faced with the reality. As the project is Elder-led, the partners on the project, including Arts Commons, are committed to providing a safe and supportive environment to facilitate their healing in the ways that make the most sense for them.

Why don’t the Elders move through the audience to smudge everyone?

The Elders Story Project is focused on educating Indigenous youth and settlers, but the smudge is primarily for the healing of survivors, their families, and their communities.

Why weren’t there any Indigenous food vendors?

If you came to the market later in the day, or just before the Elders Story Project, you may have noticed there were no Indigenous food vendors. This was not an oversight! This was because in the first hour, they sold out! We are thrilled with their success and are definitely looking forward to adding more food vendors at the Indigenous Makers Market next year.

Where can I find a list of all of the vendors that were at the Market?

You can find the list of the vendors that were present at the Market here!

How is Arts Commons working towards Reconciliation year-round?

Arts Commons began our journey working under the guidance of Dr. Reg and Elder Rose Crowshoe. The primary lessons were to listen, slow down, be open to a shift in perspective, and make room to incorporate parallel ways of doing our work in ethical space, where no single way (western or indigenous) is held higher than the other. Indigenous consultants were also hired to help translate Elder knowledge and wisdom (using an Indigenous Advisory Circle) into written recommendations, which has become the basis for the development and execution of our Reconciliation Strategy. The journey has begun with Leadership Commitment and Building Awareness of the Past. The actions in this step of the journey includes Indigenous led training sessions, engaging in opportunities for cultural immersion, and supporting the Elders Story Project by listening to their truths and supporting them in their healing. We will eventually share more of our journey on our website and our blog. Should you wish to stay up to date, please feel free to sign up for our email list here.

Where can I donate directly to the Elders Knowledge Circle Society?

Donations can be made via e-transfer to finance@eldersknowledgecircle.com or you may mail a cheque to:

Elders Knowledge Circle Society
PO Box 19557 Rpo South Cranston
CALGARY AB T3M 0V4

Anyone seeking additional information about the EKCS can call 403-879-6559 or email info@eldersknowledgecircle.com.