STORYTELLING ORILLIA
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To mark the very first National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, Storytelling Orillia has reconciliation stories to share with the wider community.
The Truth and Reconciliation Roundtable initiated by Senator Gwen Boniface inspired Storytelling Orillia to explore ways of using storytelling to support Truth and Reconciliation.
In February of 2021, eight storytellers started meeting by zoom to begin a journey together or in Anishinaabemowin, “Gimaadaadizimin”.
Together, our group of storytellers sifted through the accounts of early settlers to the area, historical books, government documents and other resources. Fundamental to our understanding of the history of our area is the oral tradition of the Anishinaabeg which was shared with us by Elder Mark Douglas of Chippewas of Rama First Nation and Knowledge Keeper Jeff Monague of Beausoleil First Nation.
After five months of meeting and writing, we presented our stories at our June Storytelling circle which was held online in commemoration of National Indigenous History Month.
Each story has a personal point of connection to the wider history of the area illustrating how we are connected to the past and the future that we hope to shape by our actions in the present.
Now, to recognize the Day of Truth and Reconciliation, the stories can be found on Facebook and YouTube
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