The Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs' reception at the Westin was the place to be last night.

It was standing room only, filled with the very young, the very old, and people of all ages in between.

Also spotted, Indian Affairs Minister Chuck Strahl, NDP Leader Jack Layton, Liberal MP and former Prime Minister Paul Martin, and Regina-based lawyer Tony Merchant. Church leaders and support staff were also mingling with the crowd.

Elder Fred Kelly took a moment to remember the former students who didn't survive to see this day. He commented on how the sudden downpour yesterday was Mother Earth's way of cleansing the site for what is to come later today.

He also gave credit to the Canadian government for what he calls the most comprehensive response to aboriginal people wronged by assimilationist policy. Australia may have given its apology in February, but Kelly says Canada is the first to give an apology as well as compensation, and launch a Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

Assembly of First Nations National Chief Phil Fontaine agreed, saying the worst is over. All survivors and their families have a chance to move forward now.

Later, standing by the coffee station, AFN lawyer Ken Young said he's happy with what he's heard will be in the apology. He said it includes all the things the AFN wanted, even some of the wording — specifically, the term "survivor."

Young says if the Prime Minister is sincere in his delivery, this apology will be accepted by the AFN.

Asked how he'll know if Stephen Harper is sincere, he said: "We'll know."