On September 30th, for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the Musée de la civilisation wishes to speak up alongside Indigenous Nations and communities by presenting the striking work of art: the Witness Blanket. This powerful art installation was created by master carver Carey Newman, member of the Kwakwaka'wakw First Nation and Coast Salish, in order to pay tribute to the victims of the residential school era and to symbolize a necessary reconciliation.

Inspired by a quilt made of a multitude of small pieces of fabric, this colossal work of art is made of hundreds of items that are related to residential schools. Each object carries a touching story about lost freedom, strength, resilience and pride. Together, they form a message of hope, peace and truth.

The presentation of this work of art filled with strong emotions is the result of a collaboration with the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. This institution in Winnipeg, Manitoba, uses innovative narratives in order to promote reflection and raise awareness on the importance of human rights for everyone. It is one of Canada's nine national museums.