September 27, 2021
In honour of the inaugural National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, ArtStarts will close on September 30, 2021. As an organization committed to pursuing anti-oppression in education, we are taking this day to reflect upon the historical and ongoing impacts of colonialism and the residential school system on Indigenous peoples.
[Alt text: Header image of white text on orange background reads "ArtStarts closed September 20 to reflect upon the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation".]
Our reflection on this day is a small step towards establishing a common truth regarding the harms done to Indigenous communities across Canada. We are learning from books, plays, movies, and events by Indigenous people to help inform the truth that is needed before working towards reconciliation. We are sharing these resources in the hopes that others may find this useful for their own learning on September 30 and beyond.
1. Books we are reading
Jonny Appleseed by Joshua Whitehead
More Powerful Together by Jen Gobby
As We Have Always Done by Leanne Simpson
Seven Fallen Feathers by Tanya Talaga
A Casual Reconstruction by Louise Bernice Halfe
2. Events we are attending
Orange Shirt Day event hosted by the Vancouver Aboriginal Friendship Society
Sound House: Never Forgotten at the Museum of Anthropology
Elements of Truth: Before Reconciliation workshop
Next Steps in Reconciliation program
Cultural Protocols, Empathy and Safety workshop
3. Videos and films we are watching
Don’t Say Its Name at the Rio Theatre
Phyllis Webstad’s Orange Shirt Story
Are you engaging in learning materials and resources in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation? If so, write to us at communications@artstarts.com. You can also sign up for our newsletter where we frequently share resources we are engaging.
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