As Canadians mark Canada Day today, it isn't being done with the usual fanfare of the occasion. This year, Canada Day becomes a day of reflection, acknowledgement and education on the dark and not so distant elements of our country's history.

Here in Portage, community members are welcomed to come together for a march from the Red River College campus to the National Indigenous Residential School Museum of Canada; the site of the former Portage Residential School. The walk will depart the college at noon, arriving at the museum toward 12:45. At 1:00, Elder Ernie Daniels of Long Plain First Nation will open a time of listening and sharing. This will be followed by a moment of silence, prayer and reflection at 2:15.

Those attending the march and ceremony are asked to follow public health orders, wear orange if possible, or bring a child-orientated memento to leave at the site.

Even if you are unable to participate in the complete walk, due to the heat, you are nonetheless welcomed to join the journey along the Crescent for however long you're able, or attend the ceremony following the walk.