2023 Award Recipients
Summerside Capitals
This recognition results from the Summerside Western Capitals’ initiative to host an Every Child Matters hockey game to raise awareness of Residential School Survivors and Reconciliation. In addition to wearing orange jerseys created in consultation with local First Nations they also visited Lennox Island to learn about Truth and Reconciliation, meet with the community’s children, and hand out complimentary tickets to the Every Child Matters game. “Every Child Matters” written in the Mi’kmaq language, was also included on the orange jerseys, which featured a photo of Residential School Survivors. These jerseys were auctioned off after the game, with a portion of the proceeds going to the Lennox Island community. Through these efforts, the Summerside Western Capitals have taken significant steps in establishing a path toward reconciliation.
Charlottetown Islanders
The Charlottetown Islanders are being recognized for their special initiative last fall to host the first-ever Orange Jersey Day in honour of Residential School Survivors and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The orange jerseys featured the traditional Mi’kmaq eight-pointed star along with the double curve motif. The team also worked closely with the Mi’kmaq communities of Epekwitk to include cultural performances, invite a Residential School Survivor to participate in the puck drop, and showcase videos about the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq (Mi’kmaq of PEI), demonstrating their commitment to establishing a path toward true reconciliation.
The River Clyde Pageant
The River Clyde Pageant has diligently worked towards inclusivity, offering diversity, equity, and inclusion training for its team and community. The Pageant has featured Mi’kmaq representation and voices and has offered meaningful land acknowledgments, demonstrating their commitment to acknowledging Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories. The Pageant has also walked in solidarity for Indigenous justice. This recognition is a result of the River Clyde Pageant’s genuine efforts to be an ally to the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq.
Kings Playhouse
This recognition is a result of the Kings Playhouse’s outstanding efforts in establishing a true path toward reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples. Kings Playhouse has included Indigenous programming throughout its seasons and offered meaningful land acknowledgments before each show, demonstrating its commitment to educating the community. The Playhouse has also been mindful to include Elders and Mi’kmaq prayers and recognize and promote Indigenous observances. Kings Playhouse stands up against racism and has also supported the Indigenous community on Epekwitk through housing art exhibits for MMIWG2S.