Dear Families,
On the first annual National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, the Sooke Board of Education honours all of our Indigenous communities, near and far, and recognizes the atrocities of residential schools of the past, the painful memories experienced today and the healing of the future. We are so thankful for the lands on which our schools and offices are located and it is with deep gratitude that we thank the Coast Salish: T’Souke Nation ,Sci’anew Nation, Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation, and Nuu-Chah-Nulth: Pacheedaht Nation for sharing their beautiful lands.
SD62 honours those who were lost and the survivors, families and communities who continue to grieve. September 30th is a day to honour survivors, their families and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. We will never forget.
The rich teachings and local knowledge shared with staff and students from local Indigenous partners truly provides SD62 students with an education that is connected to place and spirit. As a Board of Education, we are committed to fostering diversity and actively pursuing equity. We promise to promote a sense of awareness and understanding of Indigenous histories, cultures and ways of being, as laid out in the district’s Strategic Plan and Na’tsa’maht Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement.
To learn more about truth and reconciliation and equity for all students in SD62, watch the Equity in Action video series. The video series is reflective of the local Coast Salish and Nuu-Chah-Nulth voices and features a variety of reflections on education in the past, present, and future.
For much more information about this important day and abundance of important resources, please visit the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.
Sincerely,
Sooke Board of Education
Trustees: Ravi Parmar (Chair), Bob Beckett (Vice Chair), Wendy Hobbs, Bob Phillips, Dianna Seaton, Margot Swinburnson, Allison Watson