Visit to Edmonton - Day 1

There were singing and dance performances throughout the event.

His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, attended the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) Alberta National Event, where he delivered remarks at the opening ceremony of Education Day. The Governor General spent the morning attending various TRC activities and workshops under such themes as Indigenous Traditions of Reconciliation and Breaking Stereotypes.

In the evening, the Governor General addressed guests during one of the events celebrating the Edmonton Community Foundation’s 25th anniversary. In his remarks, he highlighted the positive impact the Foundation has had on the region and shared insights on the importance of giving to our collective happiness and well-being as Canadians.

Group drumming backstage at the TRC event.

During the TCR Call to Gather, the Governor General was inducted as a TRC honorary witness. Following the induction, the Honourable Frank Iacobucci, former justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, delivered his Honorary Witness statement, after which His Excellency was called upon to bear witness and deliver his own Honorary Witness statements.

A healing song was performed by Aboriginal youth.

The Governor General heard from survivors, intergenerational survivors, former teachers and former school staff during the TRC Commissioners Sharing Panel. The panel provided individuals with the chance to speak publicly about the effects the residential schools have had on their lives and to share their views directly with the TRC commissioners.

The TRC hosts events across the country to raise awareness about the residential school system and its lasting legacy. The TRC is holding its seventh and final national event from March 27 to 30, 2014.

Youth were invited to participate during TRC activities and workshops.

Chief Weaselhead also delivered remarks on this occasion.

The Foundation is a charitable group that helps donors achieve their philanthropic dreams through the power of endowment funds. Each year, a percentage of these investments is granted to organizations and causes that are important to the donors. The Foundation has granted more than $150 million to the community since its beginning in 1989.