Lakehead University mural honours survivors, victims of residential schools

by carly_mchugh | 10 October 2023 2:39 pm

The Bora Laskin Faculty of Law at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ont., unveiled new a mural which serves to honour residential school survivors and those who did not return home, as well as illustrate the ongoing journey of healing and Reconciliation. 

Designed by Indigenous art and culture program Neechee Studio, the mural—titled Where the Heart Gathers—was unveiled at an event at the university on Sept. 28. The gathering served as an opportunity to celebrate the artwork and introduce some of the artists behind the project, as well as student and administration representatives from the department.

“The importance of this piece cannot be overstated,” says Jula Hughes, dean of the Bora Laskin Faculty of Law. “It will serve as a touching reminder of the injustices of the past, but also the ways in which we, as a law school and also as individuals, can intentionally move forward in Reconcili-action, mutual respect, and understanding.”

Following the unveiling, the department hosted the annual Every Child Matters March in Waverley Park.  

The event recognized and commemorated the legacy of residential schools and provided attendees with the opportunity to honour and stand in solidarity with survivors. Speakers included elders, students, staff, and faculty, some of whom shared their lived and intergenerational experiences. After the speakers were finished, attendees marched silently around the block surrounding the Bora Laskin Faculty of Law.

All of the day’s events, as well as the mural and a traditional feast, were funded through a grant from the Department of Canadian Heritage, in recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.

Source URL: https://www.signmedia.ca/lakehead-university-mural-honours-survivors-victims-of-residential-schools/

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