CMHA Muskoka-Parry Sound observes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 

CMHA Muskoka-Parry Sound observes National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 

On September 30, CMHA Muskoka-Parry Sound stands in solidarity with Indigenous communities to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. 

This day honours the strength and resilience of residential school survivors, their families and their communities. (Branches: insert local context here to connect with your community.) 

While it is vital to acknowledge the harms of Canada’s history, it is equally important to recognize and celebrate the remarkable achievements of Indigenous peoples in mental health, academia, the arts and advocacy. Indigenous communities are leading the way in creating vibrant, empowered futures. CMHA [branch] is committed to supporting these efforts and learning from Indigenous leadership. 

Action, not just words 

Acknowledging past harms is not enough. We must act. 

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action provide a clear path forward. The health care system, including mental health services, must listen to and support Indigenous communities. This means centering Indigenous world views, knowledge, and ways of being, while also amplifying Indigenous voices and investing in Indigenous-led solutions. 

At CMHA Muskoka-Parry Sound, we are taking concrete actions locally to advance reconciliation. Each office is holding a learning circle and creating felt hands as part of our ongoing reflection and engagement. Additionally, we are sharing emails with links to educational resources and encouraging staff to take the time to learn and participate in events happening in our communities.

A commitment to co-creating mental health services with indigenous communities  

CMHA branches are committed to fostering reciprocity and sustaining meaningful relationships with Indigenous leaders and organizations to strengthen mental health supports. Together, we are committed to: 

• Supporting Indigenous-led mental health initiatives that honour traditional healing practices and ways of being. 

• Building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities to co-create mental health programs. 

• Ensuring cultural awareness training for staff so services respect and respond to the unique needs of Indigenous peoples. 

• Promoting self-determination by valuing Indigenous approaches to mental health and well-being. 

Local resources and partnerships 

Our communities are coming together to honor the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, 2025. Here are some events happening across our region:

🧡 Huntsville

• Orange Shirt Day Remembrance Walk
  Join the Huntsville Public Library, the Town of Huntsville, and Hope Arises Project Inc. for a Remembrance Walk at River Mill Park starting at 10:45 AM. Guests include residential school Survivors. Hope Arises Project

🧡 Gravenhurst

• Orange Shirt Pin Activity
  From 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, participate in a hands-on activity to create Orange Shirt Pins, raising awareness of the Every Child Matters movement. Muskoka Indigenous Friends Center

🧡 Parry Sound

• Community Engagement
  The Town of Parry Sound has officially marked September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, aligning with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. My Parry Sound Now

🧡 Bracebridge

Flag Raising Ceremony
At 10:00 AM, gather at the Municipal Office to raise the Survivors Flag in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Town of Bracebridge

Commemorative Tree Planting
At 11:00 AM, join the Town of Bracebridge at Annie Williams Memorial Park for a red oak planting ceremony to honor the First Annual Traditional Powwow. Town of Bracebridge

Take action and learn more 

This September 30, CMHA Muskoka-Parry Sound encourages everyone to take time to reflect, learn, and support Indigenous-led initiatives. 

As counsellor Kim Sedore writes, “I can’t undo what has been done. I can work to undo what continues to be done. I value, respect and advocate for many ways of being, knowing and doing. I commit to increasing the integrity of my accountability structures… to find and take up my place in this healing journey with respect, love and honesty.” 

Reconciliation is ongoing work. It asks us to listen and to act in ways that strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities. Together, we can build a future rooted in equity and respect. 

For a list of Truth and Reconciliation events open to the public, visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.