(File photo/northeastNOW staff)

By Ben Tompkins

Proclamations

Reconciliation Melfort asking for city and its residents to do more

Jul 13, 2023 | 11:00 AM

A local group from Melfort is trying to get the city and its residents to do more when it comes to reconciliation.

Reconciliation Melfort was at the city’s latest council meeting, at which they presented multiple proposals.

“Reconciliation is the day-to-day way that we live our life… so sharing information about the treaty, sharing information about the land, sharing information about a pow-wow and all that’s going on, attending things, reading a book, watching a documentary, those are all steps towards reconciliation, because when we know better, we do better,” said group member Lori Constant.

The group has proposed to the city to proclaim September as Truth and Reconciliation Month in Melfort, while also having a custom-made Every Child Matters flag (from James Smith Cree Nation) raised during the month’s entirety.

Reconciliation Melfort presented the flag to council on Monday, as well as custom bookmarks with some information about truth and reconciliation inscribed.

Made in Saskatchewan

Find My Plus One: The Canadian App for Getting Out and Living Your Best Life

Mar 09, 2026

Riderville

Ask Not for Whom the Ed Hervey Tampering Window Opens!

Feb 02, 2026

Seniors Scene

New Year - New Habits

Feb 02, 2026

“We are at a time where reconciliation is really gathering momentum and people are wanting to see some of the calls to action being followed through with. This was just something that our group felt that our city could show leadership in and show support to our indigenous families and community members, as well as our indigenous neighbours,” added Constant.

“We’re taking reconciliation to heart and want to walk the walk, so that’s why we felt that this September is very important to show that support. Our neighbour James Smith had a terrible tragedy last year and we would like everyone to feel welcome and supported in our community. We also want to honour residential school survivors, as well as those who did not make it.”

The City of Melfort and its council have yet to vote on the proclamation and its flag raising, as it wasn’t on the agenda for July.

They said they will have it on August’s agenda, and based on their reaction and support on Monday, it is quite likely to be approved.

“National Truth and Reconciliation Day is about reflections, listening, support, and respect. Our group really feels that there’s an opportunity to share some education pieces around residential schools, and the legacy that they have created in our society,” Constant explained.

“There will be some things happening in September to share that reflective piece, and also to give people some information that maybe they didn’t know before. We’re going to try our best to do the things that are right and the things that are necessary, and we really want to support our community and also give our community the opportunity to learn.”

To view what other things Reconciliation Melfort has or had on the go, such as beading workshops, blanket exercises, and creating signage for land acknowledgements, you can visit their Facebook page.

–

news@northeastnow.com

On Twitter @BenTompkins_8