Students Embrace Education’s Role in Truth and Reconciliation

As Canada prepares to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, students at the Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP) and the First Nations University of Canada (FNUC) are engaging in meaningful discussions about the role of education in fostering reconciliation. Events held on September 29 highlighted the importance of truth-telling in the classroom and the need for ongoing dialogue surrounding Indigenous history and culture.

Andrew Poulin, a third-year student at SUNTEP in Prince Albert, recognizes the significant responsibility that future educators have in guiding conversations about reconciliation. “I think in the community right now, it is already somewhat being shown in schools, but there can be always so much more,” he said. Poulin expressed enthusiasm about the program’s focus on preparing future teachers to integrate these critical discussions into their classrooms.

At FNUC, students were treated to insights from guest speakers, including Crown Prosecutor Robyn Ermine, who addressed various topics related to justice and reconciliation. In her opening remarks, Executive Director Trina Joseph emphasized the importance of September 30 as a day to honor the experiences of residential school survivors. “I hope that at the end of the day, you guys kind of have some things to think about,” she stated, underscoring the significance of remembering this part of Canadian history.

Joseph shared a personal story about her father, a residential school survivor, who initially struggled with the recognition of this day. She recalled how her mother helped him realize the importance of sharing their story and the resilience of their community. “Our kids are here for a reason, our grandkids are here for a reason because we survived it,” Joseph noted, highlighting the ongoing impact of these experiences.

Elder Suzy Bear, from Muskoday First Nation, attended the event and reflected on the federal government’s commitment to reconciliation, noting that progress has been slow and often hindered by funding challenges. “I wish it would speed up a bit because some of our people really need that help,” she said, referring to the impact of grant cutbacks on educational assistance for Indigenous children.

Bear emphasized the importance of education as a means of empowerment, drawing on her own family’s history. “To me, education is so important. That’s how we’re going to move forward. That’s our new buffalo,” she stated, recalling how her mother and grandfathers encouraged her to pursue education. In her family, many have achieved academic success, with some members holding advanced degrees.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, officially recognized as a federal statutory holiday in Canada on June 3, 2021, serves as a vital opportunity to reflect on the country’s past and its implications for the future. In support of this initiative, several events are planned across Saskatchewan. On September 30, Pattison Media radio stations will participate in “A Day to Listen,” a campaign aimed at amplifying Indigenous voices through stories and interviews with community leaders, knowledge keepers, and experts.

Listeners are encouraged to tune in from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. to hear firsthand accounts and discussions surrounding the importance of reconciliation and the path forward. For further information on events and coverage related to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Pattison Media has dedicated a page to this significant observance.

As discussions continue, the role of education remains central to advancing reconciliation efforts in Canada, with students like Poulin and Bear leading the way in fostering understanding and respect within their communities.