Discover the story of Chanie Wenjack, the legacy of residential schools, and the ongoing impacts on Indigenous communities. The Legacy Space offers opportunities for self-guided learning and educational programming for all ages.
Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack Legacy Space
A new Legacy Space in Loyalist Township
In July 2024, Loyalist Township proudly entered a 5-year agreement with the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund (DWF) to establish a Legacy Space within the newly renovated W.J. Henderson Recreation Centre.
Thanks to a generous grant received from the Community Foundations for Kingston and Area, our Legacy Space will include:
- Exhibits and educational displays
- indigenous art and artifacts
- Storytelling and language programming
- hands-on workshops and cultural events
Events, workshops and cultural gatherings
Programming will be community-led and built in collaboration with Indigenous Elders, artists, educators, and cultural leaders.
A full line up of events will begin once the W.J. Henderson re-opens to the public in Fall 2025. Events will include:
- Guest Speakers & Storytelling Circles
- Beading, Weaving, and Drum-Making Workshops
- Medicine Walks & Teachings of the Three Sisters
- Book Clubs and Language Classes
- Indigenous Arts Showcases
- Walk for Wenjack & Secret Path Week Activities
- National Indigenous Peoples Day School Programming
Pearl Wenjack and Gord Downie
Gord's hands
Secret Path Live
Our shared commitment to reconciliation
The journey toward truth and reconciliation is one we must take together. Each of us has a role to play in responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action—whether through learning, listening, or taking meaningful steps in our everyday lives.
We invite you to join us to make the Legacy Space a place of action, reflection, and connection. By showing up, learning, and taking part, we can all be part of a stronger, more inclusive community rooted in respect, truth, and healing.
Here's how we can all be part of the change:
Attend workshops, ceremonies, and events that celebrate Indigenous cultures, traditions, and teachings. Your presence supports cultural preservation and shows a commitment to understanding.
ReconciliACTION means taking small, meaningful actions that contribute to reconciliation—such as reading an Indigenous author, attending a language class, or sharing what you learn with others.
Help amplify Indigenous voices by sharing stories, quotes, and photos from Legacy Space events. Raise awareness in your schools, workplaces, and communities.
Advocate for and contribute to inclusive spaces that honour and uplift Indigenous Peoples—starting right here in your community.
Listen with Openness and Respect
Reconciliation starts with listening. Attend storytelling events and community conversations to hear directly from Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and youth.
Why this matters
Activating this Indigenous cultural space:
- Fosters healing and cultural pride
- Preserves Indigenous languages and traditions
- Builds understanding and connection between communities
- Supports cultural sovereignty and leadership
- Provides economic opportunities for Indigenous artisans and educators
This is more than a space—it’s a living, growing commitment to a better shared future.
Learn more about the Gord Downie & Chanie Wenjack Fund or contact Loyalist Township’s Cultural Development Coordinator.
Contact Us
Loyalist Township
Box 70, 263 Main Street
Odessa, Ontario K0H 2H0
Tel: 613-386-7351
info@loyalist.ca
Heritage, Culture & Tourism Division
Loyalist Township
341 Main Street, Bath
Ontario, Canada K0H 1G0
Tel: 613-386-7351
explore@loyalist.ca
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