Today is National Indigenous Peoples Day and June is National Indigenous History Month. Two great reasons to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and histories of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. It is also a time of sorrow and acknowledgement as there is much more to learn and do towards truth and reconciliation.
With the discovery of the ever-increasing number of children found in unmarked graves at residential schools across the country, we are once again painfully aware of the travesties that have been inflicted upon Indigenous people and it is only through learning and understanding that healing can begin. We also acknowledge the role museums have played in our colonial history and reaffirm our commitment to raising awareness about the harms committed against Indigenous peoples, while we work to further understanding through our actions, programs and exhibitions.
In November, we will present the work of George Littlechild in the exhibition Here I am – Can you see Me?. This exhibition speaks directly to the trauma of the residential school system and the devastating impacts of a system intended to wipe out a people while also sharing the pride, strength and beauty of First Nations Peoples. The artist’s goal is to create learning which contributes to the betterment of mankind.
We invite you to read the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and join in supporting Indigenous communities in the call for truth and reconciliation.
Here I am – Can you see Me? is curated by MJ Belcourt Moses and presented by Capital Powered Art, an exhibition series sponsored by Capital Power.