St. Clair Catholic District School Board is honouring National Indigenous History Month this June through a meaningful array of board-wide initiatives, cultural education, and community partnerships that celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.
Throughout the month, students and staff are engaging in a wide variety of classroom and community-based experiences rooted in Indigenous perspectives. Activities include learning about the significance of the summer solstice and the seasonal “strawberry moon,” alongside explorations of Indigenous cultures through story, visual art, and athletics—all designed to deepen awareness and appreciation for Indigenous voices, past and present.
A key highlight of the month is the Indigenous Influencers in Sport series, a multi-day, hands-on experiential learning event taking place at the Mooretown Sports Complex on June 11, 16, and 17. Students are connecting with Indigenous leaders in sport, including former NHL player Jason Simon from Aamjiwnaang First Nation, archery medalists Rocky and Jesse Sands from Bkejwanong Territory, and professional golfer Steve Tooshkenig, also of Bkejwanong. These athletes are sharing their stories of perseverance, culture, and identity, while teaching their respective sports.
In addition to athletic experiences, classrooms across the board are engaging with Indigenous Influencers in Art. Through virtual sessions, students are learning about the cultural and environmental significance of the Strawberry Moon and the values of gratitude and stewardship. Artists and knowledge keepers such as Anishinaabe artist Moses Lunham (Kettle and Stony Point First Nation), Isaac Murdoch (Serpent River First Nation), and Samantha Doxtator (Oneida Nation) are leading these lessons, which are supported by bilingual educational resources through the board’s Indigenous Education site.
“Our faith calls us to walk together in respect and reconciliation,” said Lisa Demers, Director of Education. “When students learn from Indigenous voices and experiences, they deepen their understanding of truth, identity and community. National Indigenous History Month is a time to listen, to honour, and to grow together.”
The month will culminate on June 21—National Indigenous Peoples Day and the summer solstice—with the raising of the Every Child Matters flag at all St. Clair Catholic schools. This gesture marks both a solemn recognition of the legacy of Survivors and their families, and a joyful celebration of Indigenous cultures and communities across the country.
