Just in the blink of an eye, it seems that this September popped up out of nowhere. In another flash, we’re nearing the end.
And as we approach the end, we are asked to listen and learn on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30, a day to recognize and honour the victims and survivors of residential schools.
But, truthfully, I think I’ve overlooked some of the learning that I could have done throughout the year, instead of just one day.
When last year’s downtown march came, followed by speeches and songs at O’Siyam Pavilion by Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation), I was fortunate to document and reflect on some of the teachings that I heard there. Some of these teachings were hard to hear, admittedly, but the brutality from residential schools endured by survivors is vital to hear nonetheless.
One of the lessons that I learned—and continue to learn—is how these traumas shape and are endured by generations beyond those who may have been at these institutions themselves. Although some of this pain was faced decades ago, the aftereffects can seep into and cross through generations.
While I incorporated some of those lessons into my work and life, I feel that I lost sight of the continuing education I should and could have done in the meantime like attending further events, teachings, and cultural celebrations. Now as we lead up to Sept. 30 again, I hope my mistake can serve as a gentle reminder to others that this learning can’t happen just on one day each year.
Rather this is a long journey, and a very important one at that, for everyone.
Recently, my parents came to visit Squamish. While they were here, they made the trip to Whistler but not necessarily to see the mountains. In fact, they actually went on a rainy day and chose to go to the Squamish-Lil’wat Cultural Centre and went on one of the guided tours.
Needless to say, they said they learned a lot.
But something they said also stuck out to me: Their tour guide told the group that it was a particularly busy day. My hope now is that this particularly busy day will soon turn regular at the centre and that education will go on far beyond the days leading up to Sept. 30.
Again this year, there will be an opportunity to learn and reflect on Saturday, Sept. 30 with a march starting at 12:30 p.m. to O’Siyam Pavilion, then reflection from Squamish Nation Elders, survivors, youth and allies.
“Bring family and friends,” reads a Facebook post about the event.
I hope to see you there and I hope we see each other beyond that, too.
