As we prepare for the third-annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, there is still much awareness and understanding to build (truth) and healing to do (reconciliation).
In the days leading up to September 30 – a day to honour the children who never returned home from residential schools, those who survived and their families and communities – MacEwan University’s kihêw waciston Indigenous Centre has created a bank of resources to help us all on our journey of reconciliation.
"I created this resource a few years ago to assist fearful grade-school teachers in their efforts (and lack of effort) to teach about the atrocities of residential schools in meaningful ways," says Etienna Moostoos-Lafferty, assistant professor, who holds a cross-appointment between kihêw waciston and the Department of Human Services and Early Learning. "This year, we changed the original resource slightly to assist faculties and departments in their learning/unlearning in the days leading up to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Ensuring that reconciliatory efforts and actions are visible at post-secondary institutions should be a priority. It doesn't end with 10 days, it begins there."
The kihêw waciston team suggests that we each approach these resources in our own way, whether that be as catalysts for self-reflection through journaling or prayer – or as starting points for conversations.
Please note that some of the following content may be triggering. If you or someone you know are in need of support, please see this list of crisis lines and supports compiled by kihêw waciston.
You are encouraged to share your stories and experiences and your commitment to reconciliation by tagging kihêw waciston on Facebook (@macewanuniversitykihewwaciston) or Instagram (@kihewwaciston).
Resources:
Perspectives on the importance of Orange Shirt Day, featuring Etienna Moostoos-Lafferty, Assistant Professor, Department of Human Services and Early Learning, MacEwan University.
Understanding Reconciliation
What is Reconciliation? - produced by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
Reconciliation - produced by the College of Alberta School Superintendents
The history and legacy of Residential Schools
ARPDC Residential Schools Conversation Guide
ATA's Stepping Stones on Residential Schools
Alberta School Boards Indigenous Insights series: Residential Schools
Stories of survivors of Residential Schools
View this short clip of the documentary film Stolen Children.
The importance and impact of educating youth on our shared histories
Educating our youth - produced by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada
Uncovering the past and discovering ourselves
An episode of the 2 Crees in a Pod podcast featuring Dr. Kisha Supernant who discusses her important work with the search for unmarked graves at Indian Residential Schools. 2 Crees in a Pod
