M’CHIGEENG—As school was closed on September 30, the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, the children of the Lakeview School gathered the day before. “We are acknowledging Truth and Reconciliation Day,” Principal Roxxanne Corbiere said, once the children had filed into the gymnasium. “I know you have all been talking about Orange Shirt Day in your classrooms and I hope that you’re reflecting on all of that, the importance of Orange Shirt Day with the Anishinaabe people.”
Before the students and staff, and family members, streamed out of the building, a smudge was performed, in which everyone present took part. Michelle Taukei, the Anishinaabe Aadziwin teacher, then led everyone in prayer in Anishinaabemowin and all members of the school community recited the prayer together.
“We walk for those who made it home, we walk for the ones who did not make it home, we walk for our families, our communities, and we walk for youth. Always remember who you are,” said Ms. Taukei before leading the prayer that is said every morning at the beginning of the school day. A moment of silence followed to remember the children.
Once out the door, the walk began, a UCCM Police cruiser leading the way with lights flashing. The line of walkers, in which all 100 students took part, slowly made its way down to Clifford’s Corner where all squeezed in close for a photograph. A kind and thoughtful parent was waiting down where Lakeview Road ends, to hand out Freezy pops to quench the thirst and provide a boost of energy for the march back to the school.
Soup was served to all who took part in the walk, the students, teachers and families. Some students stood along the wall of the gymnasium, not wishing to take part. One older student was asked what the walk and Truth and Reconciliation Day meant to him. “It’s a day to remember those who were lost,” he said. Then, looking out into the large room, he added this insightful observation, “but they’re here, I can feel them. They’re here.”
by Margery Frisch
