The Downie Wenjack Fund (DWF) is marking the 10th anniversary of Gord Downie’s project, “Secret Path,” with a special concert on October 23. The event will showcase Indigenous musicians performing songs from “Secret Path,” covers of The Tragically Hip, and original music at Toronto’s Concert Hall. Artists like Aysanabee, William Prince, Amanda Rheaume, and Wolf Saga will participate. Ticket proceeds will go to support DWF, and tickets can be purchased online.

Harriet Visitor, DWF founding board member and niece of Chanie Wenjack, expressed that Chanie’s story symbolizes the experience of over 150,000 Indigenous children who were forcibly taken to residential schools. The aim of the anniversary concert is to encourage people to share Chanie’s story and understand the historical truth.

Leading up to the concert, various musicians have released covers of “Secret Path” songs on DWF’s YouTube channel. These covers include interpretations by Tanya Tagaq, July Talk, Amanda Rheaume, and Julian Taylor. In a press release, Mike Downie, DWF founding board member and Gord Downie’s brother, emphasized the significant impact of Chanie’s story in promoting reconciliation and unity, with over three million actions inspired nationwide.

Those interested can also watch the 2017 concert film of “Secret Path” featuring Gord Downie on CBC Gem. The legacy of “Secret Path” continues to drive efforts towards reconciliation and understanding in Canada.