Dozens of high school students in Grande Prairie staged a walkout in protest of a teacher who made a controversial statement on her personal Facebook page regarding the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Amy Davidson, a social studies teacher at St. John Paul II Catholic School, shared a post on Sept. 30 from Maxime Bernier, leader of the People’s Party of Canada, questioning the validity of the residential school genocide claims. This action sparked outrage among the students, who left classes on Oct. 13 to bring attention to the issue.
During the walkout, students emphasized the significance of recognizing residential schools as a form of cultural genocide. They were supported by parents and community members who provided refreshments and words of encouragement. One student, Isobel Knopf, expressed concerns about teachers expressing controversial views on social media, especially when teaching related subjects in the classroom.
Davidson’s Facebook post garnered significant backlash, with over 100 critical comments. In response, she clarified that her post focused on the funding allocation to Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc, the First Nation connected to the Kamloops Indian Residential School. Despite the controversy, Davidson maintained that she is not a denier of residential school atrocities.
The teacher faced repercussions for her post, including being relieved of teaching duties by the Grande Prairie and District Catholic School Division. Davidson, however, defended her actions, citing the importance of addressing pertinent issues. She highlighted messages of support from former students who commended her impartiality in the classroom.
Airianna Bayne, a Grade 12 student with personal ties to residential schools, found Davidson’s post deeply troubling. Bayne’s grandmother attended a residential school, and she stressed the importance of confronting denialism and racism towards Indigenous communities.
The Alberta Teachers’ Association and the school division declined to comment on Davidson’s situation. The division affirmed its commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and supporting student advocacy and dialogue. Lindsy Coney, a youth program coordinator, praised the students’ peaceful protest and emphasized the need for educators to be mindful of their social media presence.
As the controversy continues, Davidson remains on paid leave pending a meeting with the school division and the Alberta Teachers’ Association. The incident underscores the ongoing importance of acknowledging and addressing the legacy of residential schools in Canada.
