Niagara Catholic District School Board

As part of the Niagara Catholic District School Board’s journey towards Truth and Reconciliation, we recognize that the land on which we teach, learn, and gather is the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe People, many of whom continue to live, attend our schools, teach, and work here today.

We acknowledge the rich history, heritage, and contribution of generations of Indigenous People in Niagara, and all First Nations Inuit, and Métis Peoples, past and present, throughout the school year. We particularly honour Indigenous people during National Indigenous History Month.

National Indigenous History Month is a time to reflect upon and honour the diverse cultures, deep traditions, and remarkable resilience of Indigenous communities. It is also a time to acknowledge the lasting impact of colonization and to commit to truth and reconciliation.

At Niagara Catholic, we are dedicated to embedding Indigenous perspectives into our curriculum and school life. Through meaningful event and educational experiences, we aim to deepen students’ understanding of Indigenous history and cultures. This commitment reflects our Mission, Vision, and Values, which are grounded in diversity, equity, inclusion, and the belief that everyone is welcome and “called by name.”

Our Indigenous Education team plays a vital role in bringing Indigenous voices and experiences into our schools. Throughout the year, students and staff engage in events that celebrate Indigenous culture and promote awareness. Below are some of the major events that our students and staff participated in this school year.

• In September, Niagara Catholic students and staff participated in the annual Unity Walk in Fort Erie, standing in solidarity with Indigenous communities to honour and support residential school survivors.
• In March, we marked World Water Day with a student-created art installation showcased at Brock University. This project encouraged students to reflect on the sacred role of water in Indigenous cultures and its vital importance to all life.
• In May, Lakeshore Catholic High School hosted REEL Canada’s Celebrating Indigenous Stories Film Festival as part of the Grade 11 NBE course, Understanding Contemporary First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Voices. Students explored short films that highlighted Indigenous identity, resilience, and storytelling and welcomed Asia Youngman, an award-winning Cree Métis filmmaker for a virtual visit.
• Also in May, Indigenous secondary students gathered at Heartland Forest Nature Experience for what is becoming an annual Indigenous Student Voice Gathering. The day featured team building and land-based learning activities, empowering students to share their perspectives and advocate for Indigenous voices within their schools.

This school year, Niagara Catholic schools also marked Treaty Week, Louis Riel Day, National Aboriginal Remembrance Day, the National Day for Missing and Murdered Women (Red Dress Day) and other days focused on honouring the legacy of Indigenous people.

As part of our commitment to ensuring non-Indigenous students are introduced to Indigenous culture, Niagara Catholic’s Indigenous Team and individual schools hosted Indigenous artists, speakers, and business leaders to schools throughout the school year.

During National Indigenous History Month, self-identified Indigenous Youth in Grades 7 and 8 will explore the exciting world of skilled trades through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). This engaging, hands-on experience is designed to introduce students to a variety of career pathways in the trades.

We will share events and activities taking place throughout National Indigenous History Month on our website and social media.