CARLYLE - A social media comment made by a student at the Gordon F. Kells High School in Carlyle in late January about the singing of the national anthem at the 2024 graduation ceremony has caused quite an uproar in the community.
The student, who cannot be named, felt that the singing of O Canada had no place at the event and a more multicultural song should be chosen.
Chief Jonathan Pasap from the White Bear First Nations (WBFN) and Mayor Jen Sedor from Carlyle jumped into action to try and resolve this matter.
Sedor and town council said they take pride in creating an inclusive and welcoming community.
“We strive to provide a safe environment where people feel secure and at home,” said Sedor.
They look forward to working with the school's administration and members of the White Bear community to navigate the Truth and Reconciliation Commision's calls to action and create a true sense of connected community for all.
Pasap said the incident in Carlyle involving the high school student represents an opportunity for true reconciliation.
“There is an urgent need to have follow up meetings with the school division to discuss the need for curriculum to include TRC Calls to Action on education,” said Pasap.
Pasap feels one call to action is to make age-appropriate curriculum on residential schools, treaties and Aboriginal peoples' history of contributions to Canada.
There are other calls to action that are important and need to be discussed as well.
Sedor saidCanadians are at a point in history where it is easier to disconnect from each other.
“There is now an opportunity to teach, not just history but most importantly empathy, because knowledge is not enough without true human connection,” said Sedor.
History shows that it is easy to teach caution, fear and even hate. It is much more difficult to be vulnerable, open and honest, and to love.
“I think it is our responsibility to take steps forward in the direction of true reconciliation,” she said. “Every step forward is a step in the right direction.”
Pasap explained there is a need to develop an Indigenous engagement strategy with the Town of Carlyle and surrounding areas.
The WBFN contributes a minimum of $500,000 monthly in economic benefits to Carlyle, according to Pasap.
Pasap feels it is important to bring this up, so people understand the WBFN has been contributing to local economics for decades.
He also pointed out the WBFN is an important stakeholder and rightsholder in the Treaty Four Territory.
Pasap believes racism and discrimination is learned at home and through multiple avenues.
“We as a nation believe this can be unlearned and endeavored to improve relations and achieve true reconciliation,” said Pasap.
Together Pasap, Sedor and members of both councils feel that this must be the ultimate goal to be taught and to strive for truth and reconciliation.
The Gordon F. Kells High School could not be reached for comment.
