Native Renaissance in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory will be hosting the “Truth and Reconciliation Project” exhibition from Sept. 30 (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation) until Oct. 31, 2022.
The exhibition will feature 139 paintings by local artist Ken Leighton, representing the total number of Canadian Indian residential schools. This school system was funded by the government and its policies were executed by the churches.
The “Truth and Reconciliation Project” pays tribute to the 1,000’s of Indigenous people killed through 500 years of attempted genocide, colonization, and assimilation. “Yet, after all of this, our people still stand strong.”
The “Truth and Reconciliation Project” collection has been created to bring attention to the Canadian Indian residential school system as a whole, knowing that reconciliation can only come about in the light of the truth.
The paintings in this truth-telling exhibition are not for sale. Rather, donations will be gratefully accepted on behalf of the Tsi Tyónnheht Onkwawén:na Language and Culture Centre (TTO) in Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. They can be viewed daily from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m..
Starting at 7 p.m. on Sept. 30, a free, pre-opening concert will be given on-site by local Mohawk singer, songwriter and recording artist, Jonathan Maracle. All are welcome.
Native Renaissance is located at 386 Highway 49, Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory