Rideau Hall in Ottawa was the site of a moving ceremony led by Métis National Council President Victoria Pruden on September 29. A delegation of Métis residential school Survivors and Elders, including Métis Nation of Ontario (MNO) citizens June Smart and Joseph & Elsa Poitras, joined Indigenous leaders, health support workers, and members of the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation to honour Indigenous resilience, reflection, and healing.
Hosted by Governor General Mary Simon, the gathering featured powerful moments of remembrance and recommitment, as well as the unveiling of three new sculptures created by First Nations, Inuit, and Métis artists. These works are now a permanent part of the Heart Garden at Rideau Hall—a memorial honouring First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children who died in the residential school system, and those who survived.
Marking 10 years since the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report, this event stood as a solemn reminder of Canada’s history and a hopeful call to action for its future.