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DCDSB Statement on The Discovery of Unmarked Graves at Former Residential School Sites
It is with profound sadness that we mourn the loss of children as the discovery of more unmarked graves at residential schools across the country are reported in the media. Our hearts are filled with grief, sorrow, and shame by the reminders of the residential school system and its lasting trauma on Indigenous people and communities.
Recognizing the truth is a step needed to achieve the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and we are committed to this learning. We recognize that more work needs to be done and as a society, we need to educate ourselves on the tragic wrongs and unjust acts that have been and continue to be committed towards Indigenous people.
At the Durham Catholic District School Board, we walk the path together with our Indigenous Advisory Circle, Student Indigenous Advisory Circle, Indigenous partners, students and families and pledge to continue our learning in support of the truth and reconciliation. We hope through our collaborative work to support a positive future where the history, contribution, and excellence of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people is known and embraced by all.
At this time, we extend our support to assist those who are experiencing heightened emotion. Students who may be struggling are encouraged to reach out to a caring adult to arrange support through our social workers. Mental Health resources are available at:
- Indigenous Education webpage;
- Summer Mental Heath webpage; or
- Call our Social Work Access Line at 905-576-6150 ext. 21021. Please note: This is not a crisis line and is not monitored 24/7
Information About Residential Schools
These resources have been created to provide families and communities with additional information on residential schools and their legacy of violence and genocide against Indigenous people in Canada.
- Anishinabek.ca – An Overview of the Indian Residential School System
- The History of Residential Schools in Canada
- List of Residential Schools in Canada
- Reconciliation Thunder #94in94 Campaign
- Settlers Take Action - The On Canada Project: How to Make This Moment of Mourning a Movement for Change
Resources
- The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation Reports
- Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada 94 Calls to Action
- Reclaiming Power and Place: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Book Suggestions
- Stolen Words by Melanie Florence (Primary students)
- When We Were Alone by David A. Robertson (Primary students)
- Fatty Legs: A True Story by Christy Jordan-Fenton and Margaret Pokiak-Fenton (Primary students)
- Broken Circle: The Dark Legacy of Indian Residential Schools: A Memoir by Theodore Fontaine (secondary students and adults)
- They Called Me Number One: Secrets and Survival at an Indian Residential School by Bev Sellars (secondary students and adults)
- Indigenous Writes: A Guide to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Issues in Canada by Chelsea Vowel (secondary students and adults)
Our Indigenous Education program
The following are links to articles that highlight our Indigenous Education program and the work being accomplished in our schools.
- How Durham School Boards plan to Boost Indigenous Education
- "Are kids learning about this?" Durham Readers ask if residential school system and its impact is being taught
- "A Lot of Work to Do:" Durham Catholic board plans for deeper Indigenous Learning in K-8
- Grade 11 English at Durham Catholic schools will look different this fall (June 2020)
- DCDSB Indigenous Education newsletters