How many of us really know our Canadian history? In grades 5 and 6 we learned about John Cabot, Samuel de Champlain and others who arrived on our shores as explorers and claimed Canada for France and England. However, are we really aware of what their conquering ways did to the Native Peoples who inhabited this wild, wind-swept and magnificent country?
The foreign invaders scooped up a wealth of furs and natural resources and brought settlers who introduced disease and pestilence. Land was bartered away in a series of treaty agreements that were ignored by the settlers.
Eventually, there ensued over a century of residential schools established by the government “to take the Indian out of the Indian”. The residential school experience has left a huge black mark on the Canadian psyche. Much healing needs to occur.
Today, most Canadians have heard about the Truth and Reconciliation Process which is an effort to bring healing and reconciliation among Aboriginal Peoples and Non-Aboriginals, the settlers of the present day.
Come and join us on Tuesday, March 10th and Wednesday, March 11th at Western University’s Faculty of Education Building as we advance the work of transforming the legacy of residential schools. Join us for an evening with well-known singer Susan Aglukark and the Sisters of All Nations Singers from Western University. Be with us the following day to hear Wab Kinew one of “9 Aboriginal movers and shakers you should know” share his message of truth and healing. Participate in workshops to facilitate learning about the residential school experience and our way forward.
Our conference promises to be an uplifting, healing experience.
All are welcome. Click HERE for poster. We would be happy to have you join us.
Jean Moylan, csj