For the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Ontario Arts Council (OAC) commissions work from an Indigenous artist in Ontario to foster communal reflection on the day’s importance and themes. We believe that the arts are among the most powerful ways that we can learn from one another – about our personal and collective histories, our current realities, and our hopes and visions for the future. And we are committed to supporting and nurturing Ontario’s artists to do this critical work.
(Left): Amaukuluga
My Dear Great Grandmother
by Aedan Corey
(Center): Anaanatsiakuluga
My Dear Grandmother
by Aedan Corey
(Right): Anaanakuluga
My Dear Mother
by Aedan Corey
Artist statement
“I wanted this project to reflect the strength of the women before me. The strength not just in their ability to withstand hardship, but to carry forward knowledge and traditions, ensuring they thrive in generations to come. These pieces are depictions of my great-grandmother, my grandmother, and my mother and I as a testament to the impact of their love. Through these women I have been immersed in language, I have learned to sew, I have seen demonstrated the importance of upholding community, amongst many other lessons I will carry throughout my life.
On truth and reconciliation day, as Canada reflects on the atrocities of the residential school system, I would like this project to serve as a reminder of the importance of connection, and an acknowledgement that Indigenous strength and resilience exists in many forms.”
— Aedan Corey
OAC statement
In 2021, the Government of Canada designated September 30th as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. September 30th is also recognized as Orange Shirt Day – an Indigenous-led initiative to raise awareness of the individual, family and community intergenerational impacts of residential schools, and to remind all Canadians that every child matters.
The OAC recognizes this as a day of commemoration and mourning of the innocent First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children who were harmed and whose lives were lost at Canada’s residential schools and the healing journey of survivors and their families and communities. Acknowledging the history of Canada’s appalling treatment of Indigenous peoples and the ongoing effects of residential schools is a vital component of the reconciliation process.
The OAC acknowledges that an ongoing and long-term commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous communities is necessary, and that this commitment must happen at a personal, professional and systemic level.
In support of the
Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, OAC seeks to advance reconciliation through its granting programs for Indigenous artists and arts organizations and by expanding its ongoing relationships with Indigenous communities. The OAC affirms its commitment to Indigenous artists and communities in Ontario through programs and initiatives that specifically aim to support their creativity, collaboration and success.
Read more about OAC’s commitment to and support for Indigenous arts.