Dear TCRCE Families:
As you are likely aware, many of our local communities have been impacted by the ongoing fisheries dispute. It’s important we take a moment to recognize our commitment to diversity and inclusion. Providing a safe and inclusive learning environment in our schools is always our first priority.
We acknowledge that all of our schools are located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq. We share this land because of treaties written in a spirit of peace and friendship. Although they were signed over two hundred years ago, these treaties are still alive and important today. This makes all of us Treaty people. As Treaty people, our relationship is based on peace and friendship. It’s our obligation to respect and take care of one another.
We believe events like these are teachable moments and are sharing a similar message with our schools and students. We are encouraging conversations in the classrooms, as well as providing safe places for those who wish to continue the discussion.
It’s also important to note that any form of harassment/discrimination by any member of our school family is unacceptable. We are proud of our diverse communities and will continue to celebrate all that makes us special.
We have a number of events coming in the near future, including Orange Shirt Day on September 30th, when we will honor residential school survivors. This event will be an especially important day this year as we will hold additional conversations around Treaty Education, and how we are all part of the reconciliation process. I invite everyone to continue these conversations at home and remember the spirit of peace and friendship in which the treaties were created.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chris Boulter, Regional Executive Director
