On September 30, students and staff across the Kenora Catholic District School Board came together in observance of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. This important day is a time to reflect on the histories and legacies of residential schools and to honour the children, Survivors, families, and communities who continue to be affected.
At St. Thomas Aquinas High School, students and staff gathered on the field wearing their orange shirts to hear a prayer and blessing from Elder Ida Skead, followed by traditional drumming. Together with members of Grand Council Treaty #3 and Kejick School, they walked in solidarity to the Cecilia Jeffrey Indian Residential School Memorial Site. In partnership with the Kenora Chiefs Advisory, the gathering included soup and refreshments, a sacred fire, and heartfelt reflections shared by Residential School Survivors. Students and staff from Beaver Brae Secondary School also joined the walk, creating a powerful moment of unity in our community.