Get ready to rock your roots on September 30!
The 2023 Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation will take place on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (September 30) between 10:00 and 11:30 a.m. The walk will begin at Central Urban Métis Federation Inc. (CUMFI) and end at the “Where Our Paths Cross” Reconciliation Circle art installation in Victoria Park (across the road from 422 Spadina Cres W).
Rock Your Roots is put on by Reconciliation Saskatoon, which the City of Saskatoon co-chairs along with the Office of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC). The event, which has seen attendance in the thousands in past years, was first held in 2016. The intent of this event is to answer the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada's Calls to Action by demonstrating a commitment to Reconciliation, honouring Residential School Survivors, and continuing work towards an inclusive community.
The event is called “Rock Your Roots” as a reminder to be proud of where you came from and the diversity in our community. Cultural performers from our community are invited to "rock their roots" along the route as a celebration of our cultural differences. The significance of doing a walk can be attributed to the Sunday walks in residential schools; this was often the only time when siblings and cousins of different genders might be reunited.
The Rock Your Roots Walk for Reconciliation is an acknowledgment of the multi-generational impacts of residential schools. It’s one way to demonstrate a commitment to Reconciliation and to equal opportunities for every member of our community.
This event is open to all and is family-friendly. Workplaces and organizations are encouraged to send a team and to consider showcasing their organization’s support by carrying a banner during the walk. Participants are invited to wear an EveryChildMatters orange shirt or their traditional cultural clothing. For timely updates, you can join or follow the Rock Your Roots: Walk for Reconciliation Facebook Event.