Lennox Island First Nation is spearheading efforts to create a monument on Prince Edward Island that will pay tribute to survivors of residential schools and acknowledge the enduring impact of these institutions on Indigenous individuals and communities.
The aim is to reveal the monument, or at least its design, by the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation next year, according to Jamie Thomas, the First Nation’s director of culture and tourism.
Thomas mentioned that Lennox Island will lead discussions on the monument’s appearance, ensuring representation from government, survivors, and other relevant parties to adequately honor all survivors and descendants across the island.
This initiative is in response to Call to Action 82 by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which calls for a visible monument in each capital city to honor residential school survivors, their children, and communities.
Provincial and territorial governments are responsible for 31 of the commission’s 94 calls to action, with Lennox Island Chief Tabatha Bernard urging the provincial government to act on the monument.
Although Premier Rob Lantz did not provide details during interviews, he acknowledged that progress is being made by First Nations and the City of Charlottetown on the monument project.
Thomas highlighted that the planning process involves studying monuments in other communities, like the one at Abegweit First Nation, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and ensuring discussions align with Mi’kmaw values and teachings.
The monument aims to honor residential school survivors and acknowledge their descendants and others impacted by the schools, especially as only four survivors remain in Lennox Island.
Thomas emphasized the significance of meaningful action and commitment from the province to address the lasting effects of residential schools on Indigenous communities.
She expressed a desire for timely progress on the 94 calls to action, recognizing the need for continued efforts to achieve meaningful outcomes.
