During yesterday’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Moose Javians came together for a ceremony at the Temple Gardens Centre. Among the artists, organizations and presenters who took part were Regina-based beadwork artists Rhonda Horton and her niece, Charity Gadica, both proud urban members of Peepeekisis First Nation. For Horton, who was showcasing her own table for the first time this year, the event was not only a chance to share her creations but also to honour her late mother’s legacy and her heritage. “While I bead, I think of my mom, who was in a residential school,” Horton explained. “So, for me, beading is healing.” Adorning her table was an array of pieces, including orange T-shirts and red dresses, as well as traditional style necklaces and earrings. Horton says the practice has also helped her reconnect with a part of her upbringing that was left out, not by choice, but by circumstance. “(My mother) couldn’t pass this down to us because she never had that opportunity at home,” said Horton. Attending events like yesterday’s gives Horton hope that much-needed healing conversations, the sharing of cultural knowledge and tradition will continue. “(I feel) hopeful that more people as years go on will learn. Sometimes people say, ‘Oh get over it’ or something, but it's hard when I know my mom went through this, and her parents went through this,” Horton explained. “People handle trauma differently and I'm so grateful that my mom loved us and encouraged us. She's been gone now for 25 years, so, when I see this and I see the kokum's and the moshom’s and the elders, it just resonates.” Horton said the response from attendees was inspiring, not just for her, but for others. “(I spoke with) and encouraged two ladies to make their own poppies because I didn’t have any left,” Horton said of the women who were inspired to take up the craft. “They said they're going to try and I said, ‘Take my phone number because I want to see what you bead.’” Horton encourages everyone to take up a craft and connect with their heritage, especially since there are numerous programs one can take part in. “At the public library, they have (beading) lessons and it's free. You get the supplies and it's such a good way to connect and do something,” said Horton. “It's not just for indigenous people. It's for anybody, and I love it.”