What's On at the Library

This year marks the third year of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. While September 30 may be the day that we remember and learn, truth and reconciliation is a year-round initiative. To support your continued learning on truth and reconciliation, we've compiled a list of physical and online resources, including events, at TPL and beyond. 

Library resources 

Blogs

Read previously-published blogs on various topics:

• Truth and Reconciliation: A Guide for Newcomers
• Preserving and Revitalizing Indigenous Languages
• Indigenous Science Fiction
• An Illustrated Book by an Indigenous Creator: Picks for the TPL Reading Challenge

Book lists

Browse recommended reads for children, teens and adults:

• Orange Shirt Day - Learn more about Orange Shirt Day and the legacy of Indian residential schools.
• Reading for Reconciliation - Explore topics like colonialism, residential schools, Indigenous justice and suggestions for a path forwards.
• Read Indigenous - Discover books that amplify the voices of Indigenous authors, Knowledge Keepers and illustrators.

Exhibit

Experience Residential School Survivors: Honouring the Memory, an augmented reality exhibit. Bring a phone or tablet with a camera and  headphones to hear the stories of residential school survivors from across Canada. Created by the Weengushk Film Institute and StoryLab 360, this travelling exhibit will be at different branches across the city until the end of 2023. 

Programs

This fall, there are a variety of programs happening in-branch and online, including drumming, documentary film screenings, and book talks and clubs featuring Indigenous authors. All upcoming and previously aired programs can be found on the Indigenous Celebrations page.

Non-library resources 

Events

Indigenous Legacy Gathering
September 29 and 30, 7 am - 8 pm | Nathan Phillips Square
Check out this two day gathering featuring a sunrise ceremony, stage presentations on a variety of topics, attend workshops and check out the artisan marketplace.

Native Child and Family Services of Toronto 26th Annual Pow Wow
September 30, 12 pm - 5 pm | Dufferin Grove Park
Check out this annual pow wow hosted by Native Child and Family Services of Toronto! Grand entry for the pow wow begins at 12 pm.

Tkaronto Open
September 30, 12 - 4 pm | Union Station (West Wing)
A free, tournament-style competition of Indigenous traditional dance, featuring Jingle Dress Dance. Seating is limited. 

National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation resources

From September 25-30, the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation is offering a series of programs on topics related to truth and reconciliation: 

• Free, virtual programs for educators and students from Grades 1-12 
• Free, virtual lunch and learn sessions for the general public

In addition, the organization hosts an Interactive Map: Indian Residential Schools in Canada and the United States of America. This map also marks the locations of Indian hospitals, Indigenous communities and locations of TRC hearings and events. 

Mental health support

Learning and talking about Indian residential schools and their legacies can put strain on one's mental wellbeing. Days like National Day for Truth and Reconciliation can also be difficult for Indigenous community members. If you need support, please reach out to the following mental health resources.

Resources for everyone

Talk Suicide Canada - Call 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 (all ages)

Kids Help Phone - Call 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868 (for children)

Good2Talk - Call 1-866-925-5454 or text "GOOD2TALKON" to 686868 (for postsecondary students)

Resources for Indigenous communities

Hope for Wellness Helpline - Call 1-855-3310 or use the chat box on their website

Native Youth Crisis Line - Call 1-877-209-1266

National Indian Residential School Crisis Line - Call 1-866-925-4419.