Bridging divide with education, celebration

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This article was published 27/09/2023 (765 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Truth and Reconciliation Week is in full swing in Brandon, and it’s more than just a series of events — it’s a profound journey toward understanding, healing and connecting with Indigenous culture and history, according to knowledge keeper Debbie Huntinghawk.

“I am the first generation in my family that did not have to go to residential school, and that means I was not part of the ’60s Scoop. My dad was part of the day school program,” Huntinghawk told the Sun. “And my mom was adopted, she went to three different homes before she was finally adopted. My family’s experiences underscore the deep-rooted trauma caused by these historical injustices.”

Huntinghawk explained that the central objective of the event is teaching the true history of what happened to Indigenous peoples and that her family history is a testament to the lasting effects of colonization and the residential school system.

She highlighted the importance of educating both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people about the true history of residential schools and their impact.

“In order for us to heal, we need to have a true history of what happened in residential schools and what happened to our Indigenous peoples,” she added.

Beyond history, the knowledge keeper emphasized the importance of reviving Indigenous languages, cultures and traditions to ensure that younger generations are grounded in their heritage.

“It is about education, celebration and commemoration,” Truth and Reconciliation Week 2023 event co-ordinator Aly Wowchuk told the Sun. “The week’s activities culminate in the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30 — an event that was first acknowledged in 2021.”

Wowchuk highlighted that the event is for everyone, irrespective of their background, emphasizing the inclusivity of the initiative.

According to Wowchuk, one significant development is the inclusion of three days of school programming for Brandon School Division, Rolling River School Division, and Southwest Horizons. “These programs give students the opportunity to learn directly from knowledge keepers and elders, some of whom have experienced residential schools or the ’60s Scoop themselves.”

Regarding the progress of truth and reconciliation in Brandon, Wowchuk expressed her optimism.

“No one does it like Brandon,” she said.

Wowchuk explained that the city has been actively involved in truth and reconciliation efforts since 2021, and the participation and growth of the event each year demonstrate the community’s commitment to healing and understanding.

“Like a lot of people here, I was not familiar with the whole significance of the teepee. I thought it was just a structure to shield against some elements, but through this experience, I learned about its deeper cultural and spiritual meaning,” Ethan Cornect of Assiniboine Community College’s Public Safety program told the Sun.

He expressed his eagerness to continue participating and improving his skills in constructing teepees during future events.

“I think it’s an awesome experience because being given the opportunity to come, learn and help out is an honour and privilege that I can’t forget so soon. It’s great seeing so many people here and the kids being able to come out and help with,” the City of Brandon’s James Maxon told the Sun.

He highlighted the importance of the teachings associated with the teepee and how they broadened his understanding of Indigenous culture. Learning about the deep meaning behind the teepee was particularly humbling for Maxon.

As more people engage with the events and initiatives, Huntinghawk hopes for a brighter future and a stronger connection to Indigenous heritage growth.

“Our focus on education, celebration, and commemoration, is a crucial step toward building a more inclusive and informed society, where the lessons of the past can lead us toward a better future,” she said. “I still have a long way to go. But with each step taken during Truth and Reconciliation Week, the journey toward healing, understanding, and unity continues, bringing us one step closer to a more harmonious future.”

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