Comox United Church is hosting Marie Wilson for a presentation on her book, North of Nowhere: Song of a Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner, on Sept. 21 at 11:30 a.m.

Former Truth and Reconciliation commissioner Marie Wilson will be in the Comox Valley for a presentation on her book, North of Nowhere: Song of a Truth and Reconciliation Commissioner, on Sept. 21 at 11:30 a.m. 

Named one of the 100 Best Books of 2024, Wilson’s book is a compelling first-hand account of the historic Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

 

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission was established to record the previously hidden history of more than a century of forced residential schooling for Indigenous children. Wilson was one of the three commissioners for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada from 2009 to 2015, and she was the only woman and non-indigenous commissioner. She played a key role in that work alongside the other two commissioners. Through her compelling storytelling, Wilson recounts her personal experiences of hearing survivor testimonies and contemplates the continuing path of reconciliation in Canada.

 

With a journalist’s skills, a mother’s and grandmother’s heart, and insights from being married to a residential school survivor, Wilson takes readers on a journey through her experiences, listening to survivor stories from across Canada. She shares her unique viewpoint on the personal impact and lasting public significance of the Commission. In this one-of-a-kind narrative, she pays tribute to the voices of survivors who have brought Canada’s attention to the need for healing, reclaiming, and thriving. Part essential public documentary and part insightful memoir, North of Nowhere injects new life into the potential for reconciliation amidst the ongoing legacy of residential schools. It’s a call for everyone to see the crucial and ongoing work of reconciliation not as a duty but as a gift.

 

2025 marks 10 years since the 94 Calls to Action were produced. Most of these calls are yet to be fulfilled.

Wilson spent six years crisscrossing the country. She has spoken throughout North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand on the potential of reconciliation. Born in Ontario, she has lived, studied, and worked as a journalist, teacher, professor, trainer, and executive in Canada, France, Burkina Faso, South Africa, and parts of South America. She lives in Yellowknife, N.W.T.

This is a free event, but guests must register at: eventbritehttps://www.eventbrite.ca/e/learning-and-sharing-with-truth-reconciliation-commissioner-marie-wilson-tickets-1637168648499?aff=oddtdtcreator. You can also register by emailing Comox United Church administrator, Lorna at (250) 339-3966.

 

The event is hosted by the Comox United Church. It is located at 250 Beach Dr. in Comox.