Truth & Reconciliation Day

As part of our recognition of Truth & Reconciliation Day our school community reflected on the importance of learning from the past and working toward a better future. While attending informative and meaningful cultural presentations students had the opportunity to appreciate Indigenous music with Storyteller and Artist Anona Kampe from the Penticton Indian Band and member of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. Students also enjoyed a beautiful dance presentation with Kendra Jessie, a Cree and Ukrainian dancer from Sucker Creek First Nation, as we honored the resilience, history, and culture of Indigenous peoples. The students wore a meaningful  orange shirt designed by Cody Lecoy, a Penticton Indian Band member and former Holy Cross student. Students were given orange hands to write their own personal messages.

Storyteller and artist Anona Kampe is the granddaughter of the late Rachel and Basil Paul from the Penticton Indian Band, a member community of the Syilx Okanagan Nation. Anona shares Okanagan culture and history through stories. “I come from an oral society. Traditionally we did not have a written language. We learned everything through our stories, which are called captikʷł.” 

Anona is also skilled in beading, basketry and regalia making. She enjoys singing, is a drum carrier for her Nation, and is also a jingle dress dancer.

Kendra Jessie is a Cree and Ukrainian woman from Sucker Creek First Nation in traditional Treaty 8 Territory in northern Alberta. As an Indigenous woman, she uses her Instagram and TikTok platform to educate people about Indigenous culture and spread awareness about the issues of Indigenous communities as well as inspire future generations. As a fancy shawl

dancer, Kendra loves to share her culture through the art of dance.

Kendra is a certified personal fitness trainer, hockey coach, Nike N7 athlete and wellness facilitator who advocates for healing and balance within Indigenous communities through mindful movement, holistic health and cultural practices. Kendra has also worked with Nike, Edmonton Oilers, Bauer, Manitoba Mukluks and other well known brands.

The design at the front was taught to me as eye of the creator in Coast Salish design. I view it as expanding energy, rippling outwards from the center of one's being. The eagle on the back represents the free, boundless and ever expanding spirit of children. Imagination, play, curiosity, kindness and equality are gifts that children bring forward and should be nurtured so that the next generation is lifted up.

- Cody Lecoy