B.C. marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and horrors of residential schools

The Guardian's Young Country Diary series is inviting children aged 8-14 to share their experiences with nature this autumn. This initiative not only encourages young writers to express their thoughts and observations but also fosters a deeper connection with the environment. By publishing these articles, The Guardian aims to highlight the importance of nature in children's lives and inspire a new generation to appreciate and protect the natural world.

Thousands of Saskatchewan residents came together at Wanuskewin to commemorate the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, an important occasion that fosters understanding and healing regarding the history of Indigenous peoples in Canada. This gathering not only highlights the significance of acknowledging past injustices but also promotes a path towards unity and respect among communities.

Saskatoon is celebrating the fifth National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a significant occasion that honors the survivors of residential schools and remembers those who never returned home. This day is important as it fosters awareness and understanding of the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, encouraging communities to reflect on their past and work towards healing and reconciliation.

Anne's recent visit to Ukraine highlights her commitment to supporting children affected by the ongoing war. By meeting with displaced children and visiting a memorial for young victims, she brings attention to their plight and the need for continued support. This visit not only raises awareness but also emphasizes the importance of compassion and solidarity in times of crisis.

Regina's Mâmawéyatitân Centre hosted a meaningful event for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, where individuals from diverse backgrounds came together to reflect on the history of residential schools in Canada. This gathering is significant as it fosters understanding and healing among communities, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging past injustices to build a more inclusive future.

Hundreds gathered in Montreal to reflect on Canada's legacy of residential schools, a significant event that highlights the ongoing discussions around reconciliation. Fay-Lisa Gagné, from Muskowekwan First Nation, shared her complex feelings about the term 'reconciliation,' emphasizing the need for deeper understanding and acknowledgment of the past. This gathering serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing historical injustices and fostering dialogue for a better future.

A recent UK inquiry revealed that children were often prevented from playing outside during the Covid pandemic because their play was perceived as 'too much like fun.' Alice Ferguson, director of the campaign group Playing Out, emphasized that outdoor play is crucial for children's health and wellbeing. This situation highlights the negative impact of strict restrictions on children's freedom to engage in essential activities, raising concerns about their physical and mental health during such challenging times.

A groundbreaking study has revealed that living in an unequal society can lead to structural changes in children's brains, affecting their development regardless of their family's wealth. This research, involving over 10,000 young people in the US, highlights the urgent need to address inequality as a public health issue. By understanding the detrimental effects of inequality on brain development, we can advocate for policies that promote equity and improve the well-being of future generations.

In a recent public inquiry, the Southport dance teacher who organized the class where three children tragically lost their lives stated that locking the door would not have prevented the attack. She emphasized that multiple organizations had the opportunity to intervene and potentially stop the killer. This revelation highlights the systemic failures that allowed such a horrific event to occur, raising important questions about safety measures and accountability in community settings.

Papua New Guinea has approved a delayed defense treaty with Australia, marking a significant step in strengthening military ties between the two nations. This agreement ensures mutual defense in the event of a military attack, which is crucial for regional stability. Additionally, the Commonwealth Bank is facing an outage affecting customers, highlighting the challenges in the banking sector. These developments are important as they reflect the evolving geopolitical landscape and the need for robust defense partnerships.

The world mourns the loss of Dame Jane Goodall, a pioneering conservationist and expert on chimpanzees, who passed away at the age of 91. Her groundbreaking work not only transformed our understanding of primates but also inspired countless individuals to advocate for wildlife conservation. Goodall's legacy will continue to influence future generations in the fight to protect our planet's biodiversity.

The Israeli navy's interception of an aid flotilla headed for Gaza has sparked significant concern among activists and observers worldwide. This incident highlights ongoing tensions in the region and raises questions about humanitarian access to Gaza, which is crucial for the local population. The flotilla's journey was closely monitored on social media, amplifying its importance and the implications of such military actions.

In a significant escalation, Israeli forces intercepted a pro-Palestinian flotilla carrying around 500 activists approximately 75 miles off the coast of Gaza. Among those detained was climate activist Greta Thunberg, whose arrest has sparked widespread outrage. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and raises questions about humanitarian access and international response. Amnesty International UK has urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to publicly condemn Israel's actions, emphasizing the need for accountability and support for those advocating for peace and justice.

Several well-known comedians, including Dave Chappelle, Kevin Hart, and Pete Davidson, are facing significant backlash for their upcoming performances at the Riyadh Comedy Festival in Saudi Arabia. This controversy arises from concerns over the country's human rights record, prompting discussions about the ethics of performing in such a context. The situation highlights the ongoing debate about the intersection of entertainment and social responsibility, making it a topic of interest for both fans and critics alike.

Munich's Oktoberfest faced a significant disruption due to a bomb threat, leading to its closure for most of the day. This incident was compounded by a nearby explosion, raising concerns about safety at one of the world's largest festivals. The police are actively investigating the situation, which highlights the ongoing challenges of ensuring public safety at large events. Such threats can impact not only the festival's reputation but also the local economy, as Oktoberfest attracts millions of visitors each year.