Students at Hugh Sutherland School (HSS) in Carstairs have gained a deeper understanding of Métis heritage and culture following a recent Indigenous cultural residency at the school.
According to Chinook's Edge School Division, the residency was one of five cultural residencies underway in Chinook’s Edge schools this year.
"During the week of May 19, HSS students participated in a number of activities led by Shauna Taylor, mother of HSS teacher Tim Taylor, and Marvin Goodon, Shauna’s father and Tim’s grandfather. Both are Métis."
Hugh Sutherland School chose to focus its Indigenous residency on Métis heritage and culture, as most of the school’s Indigenous students identify as Métis.
“We wanted to give Métis students and all of our students an opportunity to grow in their understanding of this rich culture,” says Tilly Heenan, an HSS teacher and also the school’s Indigenous Lead
She explained the students loved the experience, and there was an excitement during the week that only comes with awareness and acknowledgement.
"You could tell that Métis students, in particular, felt that connection piece to their heritage, and a true sense of belonging."
According to Shauna Taylor, her father shared that as a child, he faced racism that prevented him from finishing school.
“For him, presenting to the students served as a healing moment, allowing him to share his story and connect with the next generation.”
Throughout the week, activities included:
- Teachings and storytelling around a circle, similar to a campfire setting
- Finger weaving
- Showcase of family Métis artifacts
- Discussion about what it would have been like to be Métis before western civilization fully developed in North America
- trapper's tent that was set up, and a discussion about survival on the land, and respect for the land
“Some highlights of the Métis residency from my perspective include the presentation on finger weaving, which gave me insight into Métis culture and traditional craftsmanship. Participating in this experience has been valuable because I learned more about Métis history and the people who lived here before us,” shared Logan P, a grade 11 student.
Shauna Taylor says a highlight of the week was witnessing how respectful and receptive the students were to the stories and learnings shared. She says it was especially meaningful to see her father present and speak directly to the students.
The school division has 12 schools in neighbouring communities, including Olds, Mountain View County, Didsbury and Carstairs. Chinook's Edge has a total of 11,000 students across 40 Central Alberta schools.
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