Port Hope to Host Canindian: A Celebration of Truth and Reconciliation Featuring Tom Jackson
For Immediate Release
Thursday, September 18, 2025 – Port Hope, ON
The Municipality of Port Hope is honoured to invite community members to "Canindian: A Celebration of Truth and a Celebration of Reconciliation," an evening dedicated to honouring Indigenous culture, history, and the collective journey towards healing. This event will take place at Capitol Theatre on Tuesday, September 30, at 6:30 p.m.
Join renowned Canadian actor, musician, and activist Tom Jackson and esteemed Indigenous leaders for an evening of song, storytelling, and performances that explore the heart of Indigenous heritage. Guests will be moved by Tom Jackson's soulful voice and heartfelt narratives that have inspired countless communities across generations. "Canindian" invites all community members to unite in a spirit of shared understanding and respect, and Tom Jackson is giving this concert to the community with love in the spirit of healing and reconciliation.
The event will also feature the involvement of Chief Taynar Simpson and Elder and Knowledge Keeper Melody Crowe of Alderville First Nation and Marsha Smoke, Southeast Regional Chief for the Anishinabek Nation, each contributing to the ongoing dialogue of truth and reconciliation. Admission is free, with a suggested donation of $30. All proceeds will go to the Rice Lake Legal Personhood Initiative.
The program includes traditional Indigenous drumming and dancing, honouring the enduring spirit and strength of Indigenous communities. Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to experience a vendor market, offering items such as jewelry, scarves, moccasins, and paintings for purchase.
“I am deeply honoured to extend an invitation to all community members to join us for 'Canindian: A Celebration of Truth and a Celebration of Reconciliation,'” states Mayor Olena Hankivsky. “Through the powerful voices of Tom Jackson and valued Indigenous leaders, we are offered an opportunity to connect with the rich cultural heritage and resilient spirit of Indigenous communities. It is through such gatherings that we foster unity and promote meaningful dialogue.”
For tickets, visit the Capitol Theatre website.
About Tom Jackson
Tom Jackson is a Canadian actor, musician, and activist whose career spans more than four decades. He is celebrated for his roles in hit television series such as North of 60, Shining Time Station, Sullivan’s Crossing, and Outlander, as well as films including Cold Pursuit, Deadfall, Mee-Shee: The Water Giant, and Grizzly Falls. A gifted folk-pop singer/songwriter, his acclaimed recordings include The Essential Tom Jackson. Beyond the stage and screen, Jackson is renowned for his humanitarian work, notably The Huron Carole concert tours, which have raised over $250 million in funds and in-kind value for food banks, charities, and disaster relief across Canada. He also served as Chancellor of Trent University from 2009 to 2013 and is the recipient of 11 Honorary Degrees from universities across Canada. His contributions have earned him the Companion of the Order of Canada, the Order of the Red Cross, multiple humanitarian awards, and recognition as one of the country’s most respected and inspiring cultural leaders.