Truth and Reconciliation Week

Kim Pemberton covers the Truth and Reconciliation Week celebrations for the Vancouver Sun. The week is celebrated to mark the dark period in Canadian history reigned by Indian residential school program. During the 1870s close to 150,000 children were taken off the reserves, away from their parents, and put into residential schools as part of the the government's program. Survivors recall being abused, frightened and beaten during their stay at the residential schools. This week, celebrated from September 16 - 22, is marking the re-emergence of the First Nations culture. Popular activities during the week include canoeing to False Creek. First Nations chief Alteo welcomes First Nations students from around Canada gathering in Vancouver to participate in the educational activities planned to help educate them about their heritage and culture.

Read more about the celebrations at: http://www.vancouversun.com/travel/First+Nations+canoe+gathering+marks+start+Truth+Reconciliation+Week/8924481/story.html