September 28th, 2026 | 2-minute read

Laurentian University Previews Event Lineup for 2026 National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Guest Speaker Dr. Alika Lafontaine

On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Laurentian University will host a full-day gathering at the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Debwewin miinwa Minadaapnagewin).

September 28, 2026— On Wednesday, September 30, 2026, Laurentian University will host a full-day gathering at the Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Debwewin miinwa Minadaapnagewin).

The event is free and open to the public, as well as members of the campus community, to honor Residential School Survivors and reflect on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action.

Event Highlights

8:30 AM — Sacred Fire & Opening Drum Song: Led by Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator Jason Nakogee and Indigenous Student & Community Cultural Engagement Coordinator Paskwa Lightning.
9:00 AM — Opening Remarks: Welcome address by Dominic Beaudry, Associate Vice-President of Academic and Indigenous Programs, and Cheryl Miller-Martin, Councillor of Education for Atikameksheng Anishnawbek, followed by opening remarks from Dr. Lynn Wells, President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University.
9:30 AM — TRC Report Card Updates & Moment of Reflection: Campus TRC report card updates presented by Nimkii Benishii / Natalie Lacasse (Manager of Indigenous Strategic Community Engagement), followed by a moment of reflection to honor Survivors, families, communities, and those continuing the work of Truth and Reconciliation.
9:45 AM — Break: Coffee and refreshments.
10:00 AM — Keynote Address and Q&A: Featuring Dr. Jenny Kay Dupuis, best-selling author, educator, artist, and Nipissing First Nation member.
11:45 AM — "Easing Reconciliation Fatigue": Presentation by Dr. Candace Brunette-Debassige, Co-Director of the Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute (MIRI).
12:00 PM — Lunch
1:00 PM — Special Recognition Ceremony: Honouring Anishinaabe Education Leader Grace Fox.
1:15 PM — Short Documentary: Screening on Anishinaabe Education Leader Grace Fox.
1:30 PM — Star Blanket Wrapping: Accompanied by live drumming.
1:45 PM — Closing Remarks: Remarks by Mary Laur (Director, Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre) and Alain Simard (Interim Provost and Vice-President Academic).
2:00 PM — Closing Drum Song: Performance by Hailey Sutherland (Administrative Assistant, Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre).

Guest Speaker Session: Dr. Alika Lafontaine

Date: Friday, October 2, 2026

Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Location: Lower Fraser (FA 054), Laurentian University

Details: Special guest speaker session featuring Dr. Alika Lafontaine. Media photo and interview opportunities with the organizers and guest speaker may be available around the presentation. Attendance confirmation, media credentials, and interview scheduling can be requested via media reply.