Diversity, Inclusion, Belonging
Orange Shirt Day
First Nations students lead the way
Along with other schools in Canada, Shawnigan promoted Orange Shirt Day on Wednesday. For most of our students, the horror of the First Nations Residential School System is not news – they study this chapter of Canadian history in Social Studies classes and read stories and novels in English classes. For a few of our students, however, this chapter of Canadian history is more than part of the curriculum – it is part of the very fabric of their family life.
Jasmine B. led the organization of Orange Shirt Day and had these reflections:
“I loved that I was asked to organize it instead of a staff member. I felt incredibly honoured to take up this cause, not just for myself, but also for my family and my community. It has made me feel connected to them even though I am far away.”
She is the first in several generations of her family who has not lived through a residential school experience, though it wasn’t until her teens that Jasmine discovered the truth, and recognized the after-effects of childhood trauma in her community. “I thought my community was normal,” she says, “until I travelled and learned that life in other communities is very different. No one talks about it, though, so it is hard for my generation to figure it out on our own. I am hoping days like this will spark conversation, inspire hope, help to change our societies, and bring voice to the silence. I think healing starts with conversation. I would like to see safe spaces provided for survivors to talk about their experiences in a comforting environment – where they can breathe easy and let the trauma out.”
To promote the day on our campus, Jasmine organized a video, and the School community gathered in Houses Wednesday morning, clad in orange shirts and buttons (Every Child Matters), to view this special presentation featuring some of our First Nations students. Each of these students had a story to tell, bringing home the message that the impact of childhood trauma inflicted by the residential school system affects generation upon generation.
During the day, Jasmine reports that she received an enormous, positive response from her fellow Shawnigan students. “I got so many grateful hugs from my Kaye’s housemates, and everywhere I went on campus, I was congratulated. I’m proud of my heritage and so proud to be able to share it with my school.”
The School is so proud to share the video below!
Shawnigan Lake School is adhering to all COVID-19 guidelines released by the BC Ministries of Health and Education, including those regarding learning cohorts, physical distancing and mask-wearing when appropriate.
We acknowledge with respect the Coast Salish Peoples on whose traditional lands and waterways we live, learn and play. We are grateful for the opportunity to share in this beautiful region, and we aspire to healthy and respectful relationships with those who have lived on and cared for these lands for millennia.
Shawnigan Lake School is an independent co-educational boarding school for ages 13 –18 on Canada’s beautiful West Coast. Our diverse, interdisciplinary and innovative programming helps shape the next generation of global leaders.
