Indigenous Students Embrace Cultural Heritage at Manitoba School

Students at Sergeant Tommy Prince School in the Brokenhead Ojibway Nation are engaging with their cultural heritage as they prepare for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, celebrated annually on September 30. Throughout the year, these students learn about their community’s rich history and the critical importance of truth and reconciliation, rather than limiting their understanding to just one day.

In the weeks leading up to this significant day, students participated in various projects and attended guest presentations aimed at deepening their knowledge of their cultural identity. Wendell Sinclair, the former director of education at the school, remains actively involved in cultural teachings while watching his grandchildren benefit from the unique curriculum. Sinclair emphasized the need for students to navigate both their Indigenous culture as Anishinaabeg and the broader world.

“Our students have to learn to live in both worlds,” Sinclair stated in an interview with Global Winnipeg. “They have to know what’s going on and to be able to thrive in either world.” He expressed pride in how the school’s environment fosters positivity about their heritage, a stark contrast to his own experiences growing up. Having attended a residential school in Brandon, Manitoba, between 1965 and 1970, Sinclair noted that the curriculum at Sergeant Tommy Prince School represents a significant shift in approach.

“It’s a sign to me that we’ve made progress back to learning who we are,” Sinclair reflected on the cultural education that today’s students receive, highlighting the importance of retaining their identity in light of the historical trauma inflicted by the residential school system.

Empowering the Next Generation

Principal Wendy McPherson emphasized that the school’s programming is designed to empower students by integrating their cultural heritage into the curriculum. “It’s very important that they know their culture, and that they know they have a place in this world,” she explained. “The world is waiting for them and all the beautiful gifts they have.”

McPherson believes the current generation holds the potential to address past injustices and bring about meaningful change in their communities. “They are the generation that has the power to change some of the outlooks and some of the past wrongs,” she said, highlighting the importance of cultural education in fostering future leaders who will advocate for their communities and families.

The ongoing commitment to cultural learning at Sergeant Tommy Prince School not only enriches the students’ education but also plays a vital role in healing and reconciliation for the broader Indigenous community. As these young learners embrace their identity and history, they are not only shaping their futures but also contributing to a collective movement toward understanding and respect.

This dedication to cultural education reflects a significant shift in how Indigenous history is taught, providing a powerful foundation for the next generation. The ongoing efforts at the school serve as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and valuing Indigenous cultures in shaping a more inclusive society.