This is a time to honor the history, culture, and diversity of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples in what we now know as Canada and to recognize the strength and resilience across communities.
St. Clair Catholic celebrates this month by learning about inspiring Indigenous people and engaging in hands-on learning together, with both face-to-face and virtual opportunities. The interactive sessions throughout the month will focus on understanding diversity, honoring heroes and taking time to celebrate and learn together.
As we enter into the month, we honour residential school survivors and family members of survivors, and remember the children that did not return home, with the opening of a youth art installation at St. Patrick’s Secondary School.
All throughout the month of June, we will be learning about inspiring Indigenous People. We begin with the award-winning music group, Twin Flames. The duo offers a musical journey across Canada and the Arctic, featuring original songs (in English and Inuktitut), thought-provoking stories and Indigenous instruments (traditional hand drum and spiritual flute). Students will learn about the realities facing Indigenous peoples today, as well as some historical events that led to a changes in their ways of life.
On Saturday, June 4, we will continue learning and celebrating together, when we bring 250 youth to the St. Clair College and Windsor University 1st Annual Alumni and Student Pow Wow. Everyone is welcome to attend, as Indigenous Youth Leaders come together in hands-on learning sessions.
Wab Kinew and NASA Astronaut John Herrington will join us to celebrate Indigenous heroes. Artist Moses Lunham, Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, will provide painting opportunities for students. White Lightning Clark, Aamjiwnaang First Nation along with singers and dancers will provide opportunities for students to learn first-hand and celebrate together. Staff will be invited to learn the importance of wholistic wellness in a salve-making workshop with Janelle Nahmabin of Calm ‘n Scents, Sarnia.
National Indigenous Peoples Day – June 21
On June 21, learning opportunities will include welcoming the summer solstice, as we begin the day with prayer, understanding the origin and history of National Indigenous Peoples Day, and celebrating in song and music together with the Isaac Family, Bkejwanong Territory, Deb and Barry Milliken, Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, David Plain, Aamjinwaang First Nation. Métis musician, Brianna Lizotte, will engage students in interactive sessions to learn the Red River jig and finger weaving, and appreciate fiddle music! Artist Rhonda Snow will share stories of her paintings connected to Mother Earth and will provide a painting opportunity for classrooms. About 160 youth will have an opportunity to celebrate at the Bkejwanong Children’s Centre Parade on June 20!
To focus our learning on local First Nations communities throughout the month, we are excited to provide pocket-sized copies of a culture card collaborative project across all schools: A Road to Understanding Indigenous Culture.
These learning opportunities and many more, will continue to bring people together in understanding and wellness for students, staff, families and communities!
St. Clair Catholic extends a very special appreciation and gratitude to the amazing Elders, Knowledge Keepers and partnerships. Miigwech, Anushiik, Maarsii, Nia:wen, Nakurmiik