SUNTEP and FNUC Students Embrace Education as Path to Reconciliation

Students from the Saskatchewan Urban Native Teacher Education Program (SUNTEP) and the First Nations University of Canada (FNUC) participated in events aimed at fostering understanding and dialogue about reconciliation in education. The gatherings took place just days before the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR) on September 30, a day officially recognized in Canada since June 3, 2021.

Andrew Poulin, a third-year student at SUNTEP in Prince Albert, expressed his commitment to being an educator who promotes truth and reconciliation in the classroom. He noted that while some progress is evident, there is always more to be done. “I think in the community right now, it is already somewhat being shown in schools, but there can be always so much more,” Poulin stated. He emphasized the program’s effectiveness in preparing future teachers for their roles, saying, “It’s an honor to do that, I think it takes a lot of that weight off our shoulders.”

At FNUC, students engaged with guest speakers covering a variety of topics, including justice and the role of education in reconciliation. Trina Joseph, Executive Director of FNUC, highlighted the significance of September 30 for honoring residential school survivors. In her opening remarks, she encouraged students to reflect on what reconciliation means to them personally, stating, “This is part of our history and share that this is part of our history.”

Joseph shared a personal story about her father, a residential school survivor, who initially struggled with the idea of the public commemorating the day. She reflected on his journey from skepticism to understanding, aided by her mother’s encouragement to share their family’s history. “We want to share a truth. This is our history. Our kids are here for a reason because we survived it. You know, it’s about resilience,” she said.

Elder Suzy Bear, from the Muskoday First Nation, also contributed her insights during the events. Having worked at the FNUC library for 13 years, she noted the slow pace of the federal government’s commitments to create awareness and facilitate reconciliation. “I wish it would speed up a bit… because some of our people really need that help,” she remarked, highlighting funding challenges that impact educational support programs.

Bear cited the example of Jordan’s Principle, which provides services to Indigenous children, pointing out recent grant cutbacks that hinder educational assistance. “You know, it paid for education assistance and extra help for our children that need extra help in class.” She stressed the importance of education, saying, “To me, education is so important. That’s how we’re going to move forward. That’s our new buffalo.”

Reflecting on her family’s legacy, Bear recounted how her mother was forced to leave school at Grade 8 to support the family. Despite this, her mother instilled the value of education in her children. “All of us in our family, the girls especially, we all have one or two degrees; one has a PhD… my brothers all have journeyman tickets,” she shared.

As the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation approaches, events are scheduled across Saskatchewan. On September 30, Pattison Media radio stations will participate in “A Day to Listen,” which aims to harness the power of radio to foster meaningful discussions and promote a more equitable future. Listeners are encouraged to tune in from 06:00 to 18:00 to hear interviews with Indigenous leaders, Knowledge Keepers, and other experts discussing the journey towards reconciliation.

The conversations at SUNTEP and FNUC reflect a growing recognition of the importance of education in the reconciliation process, underscoring the role of future educators in shaping a more inclusive society.