The new academic year in British Columbia will see an enhanced focus on Aboriginal history and the lasting legacy of Canada’s notorious residential school system.
The B.C. Liberal government says the curriculum changes are in response to the “calls to action” in the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
Students will study topics such as discrimination, inequality, oppression and the impacts of colonialism.
“With education comes positive change,” says Peter Fassbender, minister of education, in a news release.
“Through the revised curriculum, we will be promoting greater understanding, empathy and respect for Aboriginal history and culture among students and their families.”
In this region, schools have already taken some major steps toward reconciliation with their First Nations neighbours, says School District #27 (SD27) schools superintendent Mark Thiessen.
During this past school year, more than a dozen Grade 5 teachers and four Grade 10 teachers from SD27 piloted new curriculum related to the legacy of residential schools in Canada, he adds.
“Two years ago, we were a significant partner in bringing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to Williams Lake. As part of this experience, St. Joseph’s Mission Residential School commemoration events included the erection of two memorial monuments in Williams Lake and at the former residential school site.”
SD27 has also been a significant partner in initiating and recognizing Orange Shirt Day, which occurs annually in Williams Lake and 100 Mile House every Sept. 30, Thiessen notes.
“Orange Shirt Day recognizes the harm the residential school system did to children’s sense of self-esteem and well-being, and is an affirmation of our commitment to ensure that everyone around us matters.”
While primarily directed at the federal government, the Truth and Reconciliation report includes many recommendations the B.C. government can address, including education.
Given the harsh and long-lasting impacts of the residential school system, reconciliation was never going to be easy, says John Rustad, minister of Aboriginal relations and reconciliation, in a news release.
“But our commitment to reconciliation with Aboriginal People is unwavering and we are making significant progress.”
