Walking Together: Honouring Truth and Reconciliation with Greg Meekis

On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we pause to reflect, to listen, and to learn. This day is not only a time of remembrance for the children lost to residential schools and the survivors who carry their stories—it is also a call to action for all of us to walk together toward healing and justice.

Last week, we were honoured to share space with Greg Meekis, Ojibwe Cree from Sandy Lake First Nation, Knowledge Keeper, Drummer, and Cultural Resource Coordinator with the Odawa Native Friendship Centre, for a heartfelt conversation on what Truth and Reconciliation means to him.

Greg’s words resonated deeply, reminding us that reconciliation is not a destination—it is a journey we must walk together. Greg spoke of the traditional ways of resolving issues, where healing was a communal effort.

“In the old ways, it took a whole village to right a wrong. When a wrong was committed, it took the two parties to come together, with their community and their leaders. Everybody would talk and have a chance to say how this affected them.”

This powerful reflection speaks to the essence of reconciliation: collective healing, shared responsibility, and mutual respect. Greg highlighted how the Indigenous People’s Court is working to revive these traditional practices—focusing not just on justice, but on healing the individual and the community.

“We are simply reverting back to an old way that used to work… to find ways to move forward and help heal. And heal not only for ourselves, but heal the community… so that everybody moves forward in a good way.”

Greg’s message is clear: reconciliation cannot be one-sided. It requires both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples to meet each other with openness, humility, and a willingness to change.

“There can’t be no more of one side waiting for the other to catch up. That eliminates the walk together as we move forward.”

As we mark this solemn day, we are reminded that reconciliation is not just about acknowledging the past—it’s about shaping a better future. It means listening to Indigenous voices, honouring their truths, and committing to meaningful change.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Greg Meekis and the Odawa Native Friendship Centre for sharing stories, experiences, and knowledge that help guide us on this path. May we continue to walk together, with compassion and courage, toward a future rooted in truth, respect, and unity.