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On the second day of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s closing events, hundreds of participants were witness to a series of events, including official speeches, survivors sharing their stories, interactive workshops and archival presentations.

In this photo essay, Ben Powless documents final presentation and events of the Truth and Reconciliation, in Ottawa, between May 31 and June 3, 2015.

For the complete photo series, please see Ben Powless’ flickr page.

Over an estimated 10,000 people participated in the march, seen here proceeding down Wellington Street in front of Parliament Hill.

Manuela, from Toronto, wanted to make sure she had her own sign to be able to join in the walk.

 

 

Elder Josie Whiteduck looks on as the Bear Nation singers perform an opening song to mark the event.

On display were governmental and religious archives from numerous residential schools, with many participants and survivors poring through the archival data, records and photographs.

Buses came from as far as Toronto to bring several hundred participants in the march. Many others drove and flew in from across the country.

Chief Kirby Whiteduck of the Algonquins of Pikwàkanagàn opens up the walk.

A chief spoke on behalf of those who survived the residential school ordeal.

 

 

Over an estimated 10,000 people participate in the march, seen here crossing over a bridge from Quebec to Ontario and passing by Victoria Island.

 

 

 

Members of various commissions and societal groups made declarations on their paths forwards towards reconciliations, and added symbols of their commitments to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Bentwood Box.