Submitted by Chair Amanda Amaral
December 7, 2022
Affirmation:
The Board of School District 46 affirms its commitment to Indigenous Peoples and Reconciliation by building relationships and deepening understanding of Indigenous history, worldviews, and ways of knowing
As we enter the winter season, a natural time to slow down and reflect, we take time to focus on our Board’s affirmation statement.
In the last year we have seen a transformation in how we understand our affirmation and Truth and Reconciliation. All of our District staff have participated in learning and many staff have led and participated in actions that exemplify Truth and Reconciliation in education in the past year. An example of how our affirmation comes to life is in the recent changes to our land acknowledgement; honouring the language and experiences of the First Nations on whose lands and waters we gather, learn, and collaborate with one another.
As a Board the learning, growth and opportunity we have experienced by having Truth and Reconciliation as a standing item on our Education Committee feels immeasurable. An opportunity to learn about the history of the relationship between Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw and the shíshálh Nation and SD46, along with understanding how we can build a contemporary relationship that honours our Indigenous staff, children, youth and their families has shifted our conversations.
This past year has been a year of understanding that our affirmation is an affirmation made over and over. Each time we engage in learning, dialogue, reflection and action is an opportunity to make the affirmation to Indigenous Peoples again. What were the moments in the past year where you felt you made this affirmation? What happened that allowed the affirmation to connect with what you were doing? What did you feel when you made the affirmation? In the evolution of our application and understanding of our affirmation and Truth and Reconciliation we journey together.
Winter is also a time for rest, comfort, warmth and family. Hibernation. The Board wishes all staff, students and their families a deep rest and a warm winter break with family. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2023!