On September 30, join us and many others of all ages to learn more about the Mohawk Institute Residential School through The Woodland Cultural Centre.
Since we cannot be there in person, the Cultural Centre has generously created a virtual opportunity to connect, learn and engage.
Space is limited and registration is required. Since space is limited, please cancel your place by contacting janessa.good@uwaterloo.ca if you are unable to attend so that others can experience and learn from this opportunity.
What is the Woodland Cultural Centre?
The Woodland Cultural Centre (WCC) was established in October 1972 upon the closure of the Mohawk Institute Residential School. The purpose of WCC is visionary and includes, the preservation and interpretation of the original Residential School site which historically functioned to deprive children and communities of their language, history and culture with a view towards assimilation. As a counterpoint Museum and Art Gallery building which serves to showcase the rich Hodinohso:ni/Ronathahon:ni civilizations of the Great Lakes area and the contemporary artistic practices. The WCC offers unique programming including school visits, special events, workshops, performances, permanent collection and temporary exhibitions, an active language program, a library and archive.
AGENDA:
Virtual tour to begin promptly at 9:30am
RESIDENTIAL SCHOOL TOUR VIDEO - 9:35 - 10:20
The virtual tour video was created with local production company Thru the RedDoor, and it follows the guide, Lorrie Gallant, as she gives a tour of the former Mohawk Institute Indian Residential School. During the video Lorrie provides the history of the institution over its 140 year history. Viewers will get to see the different rooms in the school, from the girls’ and boys’ dormitories, the cafeteria, laundry room, and other rooms throughout the building, as well as hear interviews from five Survivors of the Mohawk Institute.
SURVIVOR INTERVIEWS - 10:25 - 10:45
The Woodland Cultural Centre is very fortunate to have a number of residential school Survivors who are willing to share their stories to educate others about the legacy of residential schools in Canada.
The WCC interviewed two Survivors of the Mohawk Institute, whom you will recognize from the Virtual Tour, for a more in depth discussion about their time and experiences at the Mohawk Institute.
Survivors will also speak to how their lives, and the lives of their families, were impacted by this, showcasing the long-lasting, intergenerational consequences, and the journey of healing that they have walked. These interviews have been pre-recorded, so unfortunately the Survivors will not be available for the Q&A session.
Q&A SESSION - 10:45 - 10:55
For 10 minutes following the viewing of the Virtual Tour and the Survivor Interviews, the Q&A session will be held to answer questions in response to the videos, and other questions you may have pertaining to the lasting impacts of residential school. Q&A content is meant to invoke further thought, but must stay rooted in respect and privacy.
This Virtual event will be taking place over Zoom and a link will be sent to you closer to the virtual event day and time.