Good Day All! We hope that everyone is staying safe and well. Over the past few weeks, Life Long Learning has posted many resources and shared information around Orange Shirt Day (September 30th) including a map of residential schools that existed in Treaty 2 Territory drafted by FNT2T staff member, Shawn Gurke. 250 Orange Shirt Day (Life Long Learning) shirts were delivered to FNT2T communities. We hope to increase our ability to order shirts each year so that more can be shared and distributed.

During this unprecedented time of COVID-19, FNT2T Regional Keepers and LLL staff worked hard to arrange for the safe delivery or pick-up of Orange Shirts with contacts in communities. FNT2T schools and communities are very busy as they continue to focus on the safety of students and members. It was important to hold an Orange Shirt Day event that followed safety protocols.

Ebb and Flow teacher, Brian Monkman, and the school, held a small honour walk with some students and staff as they held the Treaty 2 flag. Jenny Bone at Keeseekoowenin School shared a historical overview of residential schools with staff and participants. They, too, had a small walk to honour residential school survivors that included hand drum songs, community leadership, and Elders. Pinaymootang School principal, Edwin McCorrister, worked with teachers to ensure that they had an Orange Shirt Day event that was safe for all which included sharing teaching resources with staff. Ernestine Huhtala at Skownan School happily received shirts for students and staff. Students showcased artwork that demonstrated their learning about Orange Shirt Day. Lake Manitoba School principal, Freda Missyabit, welcomed shirts for staff to wear on September 30th. Dauphin River, Little Saskatchewan, Lake St. Martin, O-Chi-Chak-Ko-Sipi, Gambler and Tootinaowaziibeeng touched based with Regional Keepers and held safe events to honour Orange Shirt Day.

Many across Treaty 2 Territory worked hard to recognize this important day in a way that was safe for all. It is important to always remember this part of our history.

Renew and revitalize. Miigwetch!

*Image provided by Jenny Bone at Keeseekoowenin School.