We would like to acknowledge that the James W. Fraser Library is located on the traditional unceded territory of the Anishinabeg (Algonquin) People. We would like to honour the Anishinabeg, the First Peoples of the lands and waters of the Kichi Sibi (Ottawa River Valley).
Our library is located about 30 minutes from the Algonquins of Pikwakangan First Nations (Golden Lake) and so we felt it very important to have this display for this meaningful day.
This year we presented a Truth and Reconciliation Day display aimed at fostering conversation and learning. We featured a selection of Indigenous titles, alongside informative slides from the Law Society of Ontario’s Truth and Reconciliation Day webpage. These slides explain the significance of the day and highlight valuable resources available through the Law Society.
In addition to the readings, we have a special Truth and Reconciliation Day t-shirt on display, with proceeds from its purchase benefiting local Indigenous groups. We also showcased moccasins made by one of our library staff members, who crafted them after taking a class taught by an elder.
Leading up to Truth and Reconciliation Day, we hosted a Continuing Professional Development session titled “Indigenous Law Issues,” offered by the Law Society of Ontario.
The response to our display has been heartwarming, with many members expressing gratitude for highlighting such an important and meaningful day.
