This week, from September 22-26, our schools are actively observing Truth and Reconciliation Week, a time for reflection, education, and meaningful action. It is a crucial time dedicated to understanding the lasting legacy of residential schools and committing to a future built on mutual respect and shared understanding.
Our schools have planned a wide range of diverse and age-appropriate activities to engage students and staff. Each activity is designed to deepen understanding of Indigenous history and culture, honour residential school survivors and remember those who never came home.
Some of this year’s activities across our division include:
- Cultural Engagement: Many schools are participating in an online blanket exercise, a powerful tool for understanding the history of the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Some schools are also hosting assemblies featuring live performances by Indigenous dancers and welcoming elders who are sharing personal stories, demonstrating things like traditional beadwork, and even preparing “bannock pucks” for all students to enjoy.
- Classroom Learning: Teachers are using a variety of resources, from picture books and stories to other educational materials, to guide discussions about residential schools, reconciliation, and Indigenous culture.
- Shared Visual Project: Students at one of our schools are creating a bulletin board featuring the image of an eagle, a powerful symbol in many First Nations communities. Each student will complete a paper eagle feather with the phrase “Reconciliation is…” or “Truth is…”, creating a collective representation of our learning and reflection.
These learning opportunities are vital to building a foundation of respect and understanding and remind us all of our shared responsibility in the journey of reconciliation.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation / Orange Shirt Day
September 30 marks the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation or Orange Shirt Day. In observance of this day, there is no school; however, our students and staff will wear their orange shirts on Monday, September 29, to honour the survivors of residential schools and remember those who did not return. This simple act serves as a powerful reminder that Every Child Matters.
We encourage families to continue these important conversations at home as we walk the path of reconciliation together.
Check out these resources:
- National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
- Canada.ca NDTR Webpage – https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/national-day-truth-reconciliation.html
- https://orangeshirtday.org/