K-J Millar
Shilo Stag Media
WATCH VIDEO: Every child matters at CFB Shilo École La Source teepee raising
Every child mattered at a teepee raising, art display, and traditional feast for invited guests, to reflect on truth and reconciliation at École La Source on Sept. 29.
The day before National Truth and Reconciliation Day on Sept. 30, more than 240 school students, members of the public and invited guests attended the ceremonial teepee raising, where many wore orange shirts to pay homage to the thousands of Indigenous children who never made it home from residential schools.
École La Source Principal Geneviève Nadeau said that, as a school, students and educators play a significant role in the journey of truth and reconciliation.
“This teepee will serve as a reminder that the history of this land did not begin with us, but with those who lived here long before us. It will provide a space to reflect, to listen to stories, to celebrate diversity, and to build bridges between cultures,” she told Shilo Stag News.
For the school population, the teepee is much more than a structure, Nadeau said.
“It is a symbol of gathering, sharing, and mutual respect. We want this teepee to become a place where our students, families, and community can learn from one another, engage in dialogue, and grow together.”
Recognizing there is still much work to do, the school principal said the teepee raising demonstrates École La Source’s commitment to creating spaces of respect, friendship, and learning.
“We cannot change the past, but we have the responsibility to write the future. With humility and pride, we hope that this teepee will be a place where our paths come together, and where true sharing of cultures can take root.”
The idea of having a teepee at École La Source had been in the works for some time and aligns directly with the Division scolaire franco-manitobaine (DSFM) plan, which commits us to advancing on the path of Truth and Reconciliation.
A teepee raising at École La Source on the CFB Shilo Base, Sept. 29, drew a crowd of more than 240 school students, invited guests and the public to commemorate National Truth and Reconciliation Day observe on Sept. 30. (Photos: K-J Millar/Shilo Stag News)
