It’s never too early to make an impact.
That’s the mindset of Milton Public Library staff, who with National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Sept. 30) fast approaching have added two children’s projects to their overall Indigenous-themed programming.
Now underway at all three branches is a creative initiative – dubbed Moving towards Reconciliation – in which kids of all ages can pick up a leaf cutout from the information desk and write a short note about how they feel they can contribute to the healing.
Those messages will be added to a window tree, in exchange for an Orange Shirt Day pin.
Starting Monday (Sept. 23), teens are invited to pick up supplies and instructions at any branch to make beaded Orange Shirt pins to wear on Sept. 30.
Materials are limited and will be given out on a first-come, first-served basis.
Children and families are also encouraged to scan a QR code on library posters to learn more about the history and significance of Orange Shirt Day.
“The goal is to get children to reflect on what role they can play in reconciliation,” said Chris Benitez, MPL’s Main Branch manager, who oversees children’s programming.
These projects – said MPL CEO and chief librarian Sarah Douglas-Murray – represent a starting point that will hopefully lead to deeper conversations about reconciliation and the role local residents have toward that end.
MPL offers adult-focused tools in that pursuit, including an historical overview of the Mississaugas of the New Credit and a blanket exercise workshop.
Residents can also visit Beaty Branch’s Indigenous Learning Garden or check out the library’s list of Indigenous books – curated with consultation with community leaders and Burlington Indigenous-owned bookstore Good Reads.
“We want to make sure we have those access points (to learning) for everybody,” said Douglas-Murray.
MPL patrons are also welcome to pick up a copy of Moon of the Turning Leaves by Waugbeshig Rice, the first Indigenous author selected for the One Book, One Milton campaign that culminates with a Nov. 20 visit and presentation by the well-known writer and speaker.
Douglas-Murray said the OBOM selection is always an engaging process for staff. With Rice recently releasing his second book in the series and him being a strong speaker from Ontario, it was fitting to “make sure we were amplifying that voice.”
Click here for a complete look at MPL’s Indigenous programming.
All Milton library branches will be closed Sept. 30 in observance of National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.