The courtyard became a place for reflection, education and visible signs of solidarity, including two significant art installations.
The commemoration was organized and led by the SPCSS Indigenous Student Association and marked the unveiling of two pieces of Indigenous envisioned artwork. The “Every Child Matters” piece represents the need to understand the “Truth”. The “Education is the Key to Reconciliation” piece represents the path towards “Reconciliation” and is a tribute to the Honourable Murray Sinclair, who was the chief commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC) from 2009-2015. Both pieces are now permanent installations to the shared space courtyard.
The paintings were envisioned and designed by grade 12 student Athena, as part of her culminating assignment for the Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices course (NBE3U) last year. Other members of the Indigenous Student Association supported the completion of the large artwork and by helping her find the pieces a permanent home within the school. This collaboration between Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, with Indigenous students leading the vision and non-indigenous students helping to carry the load, was a process that communicated the students understanding of their shared responsibility in ongoing reconciliation efforts.
In preparation for the day, each individual class took the time to explore one of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s (TRC) 94 Calls to Action. Students from the grade 11 NBE3U class collaborated with students in grade 7 and 8 in the creation of paper orange shirts. Each cutout represented a pledge for the students to lead with compassion and courage. Grade 9-12 students explored TRC Calls to Action by writing messages of truth and commitments of respect, equity, and understanding on orange T shirts, which lined the podium at the ceremony.
The sentiment of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation ceremony was about honouring Indigenous peoples and acknowledging the trauma they have endured. However, all in attendance also felt inspired to keep learning, to listen with open hearts, and to be courageous by taking meaningful action.