Ahneen, Biindigen - Hello, Welcome
We acknowledge that the Newmarket Public Library is located on the traditional territories of the Wendat, Haudeno-saunee, and the Anishinaabe peoples and the treaty land of the Williams Treaties First Nations and other Indigenous peoples whose presence here continues to this day. We thank them for sharing this land with us.
We also acknowledge the Chippewas of Georgina Island First Nation as our close neighbours and friends, and we work to ensure a cooperative and respectful relationship.
Miigwetch - Thank you
As our country officially recognizes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th, it is more important than ever that we learn from the harm done in Canada’s history and that continues today. The confirmation of unmarked graves of children at former residential schools are heartbreaking reminders of the impact these schools had and continue to have on Indigenous communities and individuals. On this national day of reflection, we mourn for the countless children who remain lost and the generations of Indigenous people hurt by the residential school system and those who continue to experience racism and discrimination today.
On the long road to reconciliation, we must ensure that the tragic history and ongoing legacy of residential schools is not forgotten. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30th is a time for education and reflection.
We have curated selections of books for all ages to help us learn more about this tragic history and its impact on Indigenous lives:
- Adult non-fiction that explores indigenous history and culture and the residential school system
- Adult Fiction featuring indigenous protagonists
- Books for Children exploring experiences of survivors of the residential school system