Hillcrest Elementary students learned a little about local Indigenous history, geography and the importance of Truth and Reconciliation Friday during a special outdoor ceremony.
The Sept. 29 event began with the school principal Jodi Garries speaking briefly about the history of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and the wearing of orange shirts, prior to raising a Secwepemcúl’ecw flag.
“September 30 is a day to raise awareness about the residential school system in Canada,” said Garries. “It is estimated that between 4,000 and 6,000 children died at residential schools. Wearing an orange shirt reminds us about the impact of residential schools still felt today. This day honours the experiences of Indigenous people, it celebrates resilience and teaches us to remember that every child matters.”
Garries welcomed guest and Knowledge Keeper Jodie Jones, a member of the Splatsin te Secwépemc community, to share. With a map of the Secwépmc territory on display, Jones shared a story her father told her about an historic battle between the Sylix (Okanagan) and Secwépemc nations.
The ceremony concluded with Jones and fellow hand drummers singing the Secwépemc honour song.
Read more: Historic day in Enderby as schools commemorate Truth and Reconciliation
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