Painting unveiled at Truth and Reconciliation Assembly at HD Stafford

May 29, 2017

HD Stafford students assembled for Truth and Reconciliation on May 25. Students gathered in a circle in the gym, around a group of lights where presenters stood.

Nisga’a Elder and Residential School Survivor Mercy Thomas opened the assembly as she shared the story of her childhood. She recalled the experience of her parents handing her over to a residential school. She told students that for ten years she only saw her family during summer breaks, the rest of the time spent at the school.

Students performed a short play displaying the difficulties of life in residential schools, including the abuses the students faced. Students also shared with both students and presenters what Truth and Reconciliation meant to them.

A painting was unveiled as a gift to the school to show their dedication towards Truth and Reconciliation. The painting was done by teacher, David Sandquist. It depicts a residential school survivor being welcomed back into her community with a blanket ceremony. In the reflection is the image of her as a girl with a nun behind her, silencing her —representing the loss of first nation’s language. The school stands behind her in the reflection only, a thing of the past. The blossoms in the tree above represent the healing that has begun because of Truth and Reconciliation. The painting will be displayed in the school.

The assembly moved into a sharing of song and drumming, led by Carlyin Andres followed by Shiela Jack.

Finally, Kevin Kelly, speaking on behalf of Kwantlen Hereditary Chief Marilyn Gabriel, gave thanks to the members of the school and the students for participating in Truth and Reconciliation.