The St. Clair Catholic District School Board is committed to creating meaningful opportunities for students and staff to learn from Indigenous voices and deepen their understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures and perspectives.
Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation will be observed on Sept. 30, an opportunity for schools and communities to come together in the spirit of reconciliation and honour residential school survivors, their families, and those who never returned home.
For the past 10 years, St. Clair Catholic schools have participated in Orange Shirt Day and engaged in week-long learning to help students understand the significance of wearing orange.
During Truth and Reconciliation Weeks, from Sept. 21 to Oct. 2, schools will have multiple opportunities to learn firsthand through Indigenous partnerships. This year, the board is welcoming Cedric, Sandra and Leighann Isaac of Bkejwanong Territory; Jason Simon of Aamjiwnaang First Nation and former NHL player; Biindigegizhig of Chippewas of the Thames First Nation; Steve Tooshkenig of Bkejwanong Territory; and Derek and Bill Sands of Bkejwanong Territory.
Students and staff will also have opportunities to learn and reflect through a number of experiences, including the Walpole Island Residential School Monument unveiling, a screening of the film Meadowlarks at the Chatham Capitol Theatre, the Wallaceburg Healing Walk with residential school survivors and family members of survivors, the Sarnia-Lambton Native Friendship Centre Orange Shirt Day Walk, and a painting session with Moses Lunham of Kettle and Stony Point First Nation.
The Ministry of Education has directed school boards to avoid scheduling tests, assessments, athletic games or competitions, and cultural activities such as plays or concerts on Sept. 30, unless they are directly related to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
