Truth and Reconciliation Week 2023

This week, Selwyn House School observed Truth and Reconciliation Week by educating students about the impact of residential schools on Indigenous families for generations. We were delighted to welcome Owen and Kwena, who visited us for the third year in a row, along with their children, Mahikan and Nehirah. They shared songs and dances with students and answered their questions about their traditional outfits that they wear in pow wow competitions and for other celebratory occasions.

 

Dylan Montour, a member of the Indigenous Student Committee, addressed Middle and Senior School students at assemblies this week. He encouraged his classmates and staff members to be allies to the Indigenous community by learning about the culture and history, by listening to podcasts and movies related to Indigenous topics, and by supporting Indigenous artists and businesses.

 

Throughout the week, many teachers engaged in readings and lessons on residential schools and other Indigenous topics. For example, in woodshop Mr. Brydges invited basketmaker, Chelsea Phillips, from Kahnawake to demonstrate the basket making process from tree trunk to small strips of black ash. Over the coming weeks, his grade 10 students will learn the art of basketmaking and the significance of baskets in the Kanien'kehá:ka community.

 

The week's activities culminated on Friday when students and staff wore orange shirts to recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30.