The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is a day of acknowledgement to recognize the multi-generational effects of the Canadian residential school system. Next week, on Sept. 30, we take time to honour the survivors, victims, and families impacted by residential schools.

Orange Shirt Day takes place on the same date and is meant to raise awareness about the children who were taken in the residential school system. The orange shirt represents the loss of freedom and culture that many Indigenous children experienced. Reconciliation is an ongoing, meaningful process that requires the acknowledgement of past injustices and respect for Indigenous peoples. Literature is a wonderful way to learn about Indigenous experiences and culture. Here are some books written by Indigenous authors that showcase powerful messages.

‘SMALL CEREMONIES’

“Small Ceremonies” by Kyle Edwards is a coming-of-age novel set in Winnipeg. It tells the heart-wrenching story of a group of Indigenous high school students who grow up with hopes, fears and struggles. Tomahawk, who plays for his high school’s failing hockey team, is constantly reminded of his uncertain future and his lack of “some skill” that everyone around him seems to have. Clinton is loved by all his teachers, but his “good kid” character is a desperate attempt not to fall into the world of gang violence like his older brother. Floyd has amazing talent on the ice, yet behind this talent he is covering his deep-rooted insecurity about his multiracial heritage. “Small Ceremonies” follows a community full of uniquely complicated characters searching for purpose. This novel is heartbreaking, yet full of humour as each individual navigates identity, trauma, recovery and the hardships of growing up in a land that doesn’t love you. This novel can be found in the Brandon Public Library.