Saskatoon to kick off month of reconciliation activities

Saskatoon residents will have opportunities to explore reconciliation in a series of activities starting next week that will culminate on National Aboriginal Day with the second annual Rock your Roots walk.

Reconciliation Saskatoon is made up of 58 organizations including the city, the Office of the Treaty Commissioner, the Saskatoon Tribal Council and the Central Urban Mé​tis Federation, that have joined forces to respond to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's calls to action.

• Rock Your Roots Walk celebrates diversity, reconciliation

Gilles Dorval, director of Aboriginal relations for City of Saskatoon, said part of the group's work is aimed at helping people understand the legacy of the Indian Residential Schools.

He told CBC Radio's Saskatoon Morning that it's also aimed at helping build a better future and he says that starts with building relationships.

Dorval said he's encouraged by the number of community organizations that have joined the project, including faith-based groups and newcomer societies.

"It's building those relationships, getting to know your neighbour," he said. "Regardless of their background, they're your neighbour.

"Our goal is to create a safe place for people to come together and get to know each other."

He added it's rewarding to see communities interacting and moving forward collaboratively.

"When you watch children playing on the playground and seeing them play together, then you know they can work together," he said.

There will be a flag ceremony at city hall on May 25 starting at 9 a.m CST., followed by a series of community-sponsored events throughout the month, culminating in the Rock your Roots walk for reconciliation June 21 at Victoria Park.