The St. Clair Catholic District School Board is reaffirming its commitment to learning and reconciliation with Indigenous communities during Orange Shirt Weeks, scheduled from September 23 to October 3, 2024.
Schools across the district will engage with Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and residential school survivors to honor the legacy of those impacted by the residential school system. The event underscores the Board’s dedication to fostering reconciliation by deepening understanding through the stories of Canada’s history.
Programming during the period includes educational sessions with Indigenous speakers and artists. Jason Simon, a former NHL player from Aamjiwnaang First Nation and an intergenerational residential school survivor, will share his personal story of resilience. Filmmaker Derek Sands from Bkejwanong Territory will present *Gaa-zhaabwiijig: Survivors*, a documentary featuring the experiences of Walpole Island First Nation residential school survivors.
Anishinaabe artist Moses Lunham, from Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, will lead students in creating art under the theme “Taking Truth to Action,” while other local Indigenous leaders will share traditional knowledge through storytelling, dance, and art.
In recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, students will take part in a healing walk, film screenings, and sessions aimed at preserving Indigenous languages and cultural knowledge, which were historically targeted by the residential school system. These initiatives offer K-12 students a chance to contribute to reconciliation and healing within their school communities.
Throughout Orange Shirt Weeks, the Every Child Matters (ECM) orange flag will be displayed. On September 30, both the ECM and Canadian flags will be lowered to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The flags will also be lowered on October 4 to honor the National Day of Action for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+).
“Our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation goes beyond words—it is an active part of our educational journey,” said Scott Johnson, Director of Education, in a media release. “Through Orange Shirt Weeks, we stand with survivors, honor their stories, and work together to build a future that acknowledges the truth of our shared history while promoting healing and understanding.”
For more information on St. Clair Catholic’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation, visit the First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Knowledge Building Hub at https://fnmi.sccdsb.net/home.
