This November, St. Clair Catholic students and staff will participate in an enriched series of events and activities for Treaties Recognition Week, which takes place from November 3 to 10, 2024. This annual observance aims to deepen understanding of treaty rights, relationships, and the responsibilities shared between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

Throughout the week, students will engage in Treaty Education and Land-Based Learning, fostering a greater appreciation for Indigenous histories, perspectives, and relationships with the land. Learning experiences will be guided by Indigenous Knowledge Keepers, Elders, and local community partners who will help bring treaty relationships and values to life through story, art, and song.

Highlights of the week include:

• Dean Jacobs from Bkejwanong Territory, who will share insights on identity, relationships, and sovereignty.
• Cedric, Sandra, and Leigh Ann Isaac, who will connect participants to the land through story and song.
• Neva Isaac Sands of Bkejwanong Territory, who will emphasize the importance of the Dish with One Spoon and Two Row Wampum Belts and their roles in our lives today.
• Steve Tooshkenig from Bkejwanong Territory, who will speak on responsibility versus ownership within treaty relationships.
• Lynda Lou Classens from Walpole Island First Nations Library, who will share land-based stories with students.
• Moses Lunham from Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, who will lead a collaborative art experience with students focused on the spirit and intent of treaties.
• John Williams from Aamjiwnaang First Nation, who will connect with youth through a water-themed art project.

In addition to these activities, each grade will use resources from their school’s Treaty Learning Tool Kit, featuring books and materials by Indigenous authors as well as wampum belt kits. Later in November, St. Clair Catholic staff will have opportunities for professional development with Biingdigaygizhig of Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Jason Henry from Kettle and Stony Point First Nation, and Sophie Solares from Aamjiwnaang First Nation. This training will focus on building relationships with the land and environment, supporting the growth and development of Anishinabek youth.

St. Clair Catholic is committed to fostering respect for the treaties and for our shared responsibilities as treaty people. To learn more, please visit the Indigenous Education Treaty Webpage: https://fnmi.sccdsb.net/treaty-recognition