Week of Reconciliatory Action

The release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report, published in June 2015, made it clear that the path to reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians must include grassroots change throughout our society. In the report, the Commission specified that schools had an important role to play in educating students about the historical relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples as a way to build understanding.

In light of this responsibility, Greenwood recognized its second annual Week of Reconciliatory Action from November 5-8. We opened the week with an informative presentation by Janet Csontos, an Indigenous education expert.

Throughout the week, we discussed issues essential to reconciliation. Each day had a theme, including presentations and discussion prompts for teachers to lead in first period each day. Students discussed themes including the legacy of residential schools, education, the environment, and Indigenous arts. Each presentation was put together by student committees.

To close the week, the Service Learning Committee ran a booth at lunch in the Lodge. They talked to students about ways that they can get involved and work towards reconciliation. They also collected student questions and feedback, for ways to add to next year’s Week of Reconciliatory Action.