Beyond One Day: Artists and the Practice of Reconciliation

By Sharon Marshall, Executive Director CARFAC BC

September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a day to honour the Survivors of Canada’s residential school system, their families, and the children who never made it home. It is a solemn reminder of colonial violence and a call for each of us to take responsibility for truth-telling and healing.

Artists play a vital role in this work. Through visual art, performance, writing, and song, artists act as witnesses and storytellers, holding memory when words alone are not enough. Art carries truth across generations and reminds us not only of the harms that were done but also of the strength and resilience of Indigenous peoples.

For many Indigenous artists, art is ceremony, resistance, and healing. It is a way to pass down teachings, reclaim languages, and affirm cultural sovereignty. For non-Indigenous artists, this day is a time to listen deeply, reflect on one’s practice, and ask:

How can my work contribute to reconciliation? This might mean learning proper cultural protocols, amplifying Indigenous voices, or using your platform to support justice.

As a community of artists, we know that what we create and share builds a bridge between people. On September 30, let us honour the truths that have been silenced, support all artists whose work illuminates pathways forward, and remember that reconciliation is not only one day but every day. It is a lifelong practice.

At CARFAC BC, we stand with artists across this province in marking this day with reflection, humility, and commitment. May we use our creativity to nurture respect, justice, and healing in the spirit of true reconciliation.