Teaching for reconciliation

Treaty education is a fundamental piece of Saskatchewan history. The impact of treaty on the settlers and the First Nations peoples is undeniable. As a descendant of settler people, I have needed to find my way to a place of hope for the future while understanding the complicity of my ancestors in the mistreatment of First Nations and Metis people in the past.

I am proud of the resilience, strength and capacity of my settler ancestors. Their effort has allowed their children and grandchildren to be business owners, teachers, and community development workers.

While they came to this country with nothing but their work ethic and family connections, they were given access to land and opportunity. I am the beneficiary of treaty agreements so I must lend my voice to speak for the importance of treaty education and the integration of Indigenous ways of knowing as vital in the Truth and Reconciliation process and the building of our future together.

It is incumbent on the Minister of Education to be aware of the current context of education in Saskatchewan. She must know the obligations we have to bring about reconciliation for the peoples of Saskatchewan. Minister Eyre needs to take some time to learn and develop her understanding of what it means to be a treaty person and a person of privilege. She needs to learn about cultural responsiveness and see where she is on that journey or she needs to step down as minister. Susan Ens Funk, Saskatoon