Students at St. Michael’s Catholic Adult School observed the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation by constructing a Remembrance Tree that will be showcased throughout the school year. The tree, made from paper handprints bearing messages related to the significance of acknowledging Canada’s residential school system’s history and impact, was a collaborative effort by the students.
Simon Clarke, the Indigenous education contact teacher, explained that the project aimed to provide students with an opportunity to reflect on a challenging chapter in Canadian history. Clarke emphasized the importance of pausing to remember the past and how it shapes the present and future.
This initiative marked the fourth year the school created a Remembrance Tree, with the participation growing annually. Clarke anticipated that the tree would eventually feature hundreds of student handprints. Notably, the adult school boasts a diverse student body, including learners from Canada and various countries worldwide.
Acknowledging the sensitivity of the topic, Clarke mentioned that the school used the day as an introductory platform for discussions surrounding residential schools and intergenerational trauma. Teachers offered additional information, allowing students to engage with books and resources at their own pace.
The personal touch of students’ handprints enabled them to connect emotionally to the project. Eighteen-year-old Nasr Layla, reflecting on the experiences of children in residential schools, expressed a commitment to raising awareness and advocating for change. His fellow student, Mohamad Alhamad, emphasized the importance of remembering the past to prevent similar injustices from recurring.
Clarke highlighted that leaving the Remembrance Tree in place for the academic year aimed to ensure a continuous dialogue and reflection on the issues discussed. The project held personal significance for Clarke, who, after moving to Canada from England, delved into First Nations studies to better understand the country’s history and culture.
In conclusion, Clarke stressed the importance of comprehending a nation’s culture and history to foster a sense of community and citizenship among individuals from diverse backgrounds. The Remembrance Tree project served as a poignant reminder of the past while encouraging a collective effort towards a more inclusive and informed future.
