Indigenous activists are asking people to pause and reflect this Canada Day

There will be many ceremonies across the Golden Horseshoe this Canada Day, to mourn the hundreds of children discovered in unmarked graves in residential schools across the country this past month.

Indigenous activists are asking people to take some time today to reflect.

Sherlene Bomberry went to the Mohawk Institute in Brantford, a former residential school, in the 1960’s. She says she never told anyone about her experience for years, but now she is speaking out.

“When I heard about the 215, that’s when my body remembered. I was sitting there watching TV and started crying. I was never able to share how I really felt.”

She says she has since taken back her power by going to indigenous ceremonies, using her language, and wearing traditional clothing.

“I’m proud,” says Bomberry.

One of the ceremonies will be held at Bayfront Park in Hamilton this afternoon.

Jordan Carrier who is organizing the event says today is about coming together for healing.

“It’s a tough day being Canada Day. I know a lot of proud Canadians are coming to this truth and they are not too sure where they sit with that. For myself, I’m not saying don’t ever celebrate Canada Day again, I’m just saying for this year pause and stand with us.”

Carrier says non-indigenous people are welcome to come the ceremony to listen, hear and see indigenous culture.