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Nogdawindamin hosts reconciliation walk

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Heavy rain failed to dampen the resolve of those participating in Saturday’s Walking Together for Reconciliation event in Sault Ste. Marie. The event was put on by Nogdawindamin Family and Community Services with the walk aimed at addressing incidents of racism and discrimination in the city.

Chief Andy Rickard of Garden River First Nation told CTV News discrimination against Indigenous people continues to be a problem.

“That’s one of the big things I hear loud and clear from our members is that they still experience that when they go to some of the stores here in the community,” he added.

“I hear it from some of our students as well, some of our educators. I hear it from people that go through our healthcare system as well.”

People of all ages participated in the walk, which was shortened a bit due to the weather. Nogdawindamin CEO Kerry Francis said he’s disappointed that there was no participation from community partners in the Sault.

“It’s really unfortunate that they’re not here,” added Francis.

“Even if they would have come for the opening ceremony. Not necessarily to do the walk, but just to show up. It would reiterate to us that they really care, and that they really want to be part of causing change here in Sault Ste. Marie.”

Francis and Chief Rickard said they are hoping for more events throughout the year like this one event. They plan to push the message of reconciliation at every opportunity.

For more information on upcoming events, visit the Nogdawindamin’s Facebook page.

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