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Reconciliation Conversations

What is Reconciliation? and Where are the Children?

Secondary, Middle

Description

The resource aims to introduce students to the concept of reconciliation. It explores the purpose and findings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission while highlighting the impact of residential schools in Canada through personal stories. This approach not only informs students but also fosters empathy and promotes a deeper understanding of the historical context and its ongoing effects. This resource is divided into two parts What is Reconciliation? and Where are the Children? 

Students will:

  • learn about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and Canada’s residential school system
  • learn about the Calls to Action from the TRC
  • watch a residential school survivor’s story from “Where are the Children?”
  • create an art piece for Project of Heart to commemorate a child who died in residential school or to honour a survivor. The piece can be digital or physical.
  • Upload a picture of their tile online to create a mosaic of reconciliation

The resource provides guidelines for engaging in meaningful and respectful Reconciliation Conversations, slides to accompany Reconciliation Conversations, discussion questions, and a webinar to assist educators.  

General Assessment

Recommendation of how and where to use it

Addressing reconciliation with students involves fostering empathy, promoting understanding of Indigenous history and experiences, and encouraging students to become active participants in reconciliation efforts. This can be achieved through various activities, including learning about the history of residential schools, listening to Indigenous voices and stories, and engaging in discussions about the 94 Calls to Action. 

To enhance the learning, students can learn about the Indigenous peoples who traditionally lived in the area where the school is located. Teachers can arrange for Indigenous speakers, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers to share their perspectives and stories with students. Encourage students to participate in events like National Indigenous Peoples Day, Orange Shirt Day, and National Truth and Reconciliation Day. 

Relevant Curriculum Units

The following tool will allow you to explore the relevant curriculum matches for this resource. To start, select a province listed below.

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        • Canada: Origins, Histories and Movement of Peoples: Following Confederation: Canadian Expansions
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        • Aboriginal Studies 10: Political and Economic Organization
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        • Social Studies 10-1(Perspectives on Globalization) Legacy of Historical Globalization
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        • 1750 to 1919: Disparities in power alter the balance of relationships between individuals and between societies.
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        • Social Studies 10 -Canada and the World: 1914 to the Present: Historical and contemporary injustices challenge the narrative and identity of Canada as an inclusive, multicultural society
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        • Social Studies 7 - Many Cultures: One Shared History: Government Policies and the Mi'kma'ki
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        • First Nations, Métis, and Inuit in Canada (Open): 1876 - 1969: Assimilation, Encroachment, and Life in the Industrial Age
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        • 1750 to 1919: Disparities in power alter the balance of relationships between individuals and between societies.
    • Grade 10
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      • Social Studies
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        • Social Studies 10 -Canada and the World: 1914 to the Present: Historical and contemporary injustices challenge the narrative and identity of Canada as an inclusive, multicultural society

Themes Addressed

Human Rights (2)

  • Cultural Diversity
  • Social Justice

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