Métis cultural residency at Hugh Sutherland School increases sense of belonging

Hugh Sutherland School (HSS) students are more aware of Métis heritage and culture, thanks to an Indigenous cultural residency at their school recently. The residency was one of five cultural residencies underway in Chinook’s Edge schools this year.

During the week of May 19, HSS students participated in a number of activities led by Shauna Taylor, mother of HSS teacher Tim Taylor, and Marvin Goodon, Shauna’s father and Tim’s grandfather. Both are Métis.

HSS chose to do an Indigenous residency focused on Métis heritage and culture, because the majority of Indigenous students in the school are Métis. 

“We wanted to give Métis students and all of our students an opportunity to grow in their understanding of this rich culture,” says Tilly Heenan, an HSS teacher and also the school’s Indigenous Lead

“The students loved the experience,” says Heenan. “There was an excitement during the week that only comes with awareness and acknowledgement. You could tell that Métis students, in particular, felt that connection piece to their heritage - and a true sense of belonging.”

“This type of experience is a game changer,” says Heenan. “There is real power in knowing who you are, and then having the whole school celebrate that.” 

Throughout the week, activities included: 

• Teachings and storytelling around a circle, similar to a campfire setting
• Finger weaving
• Showcase of family Métis artifacts
• Discussion about what it would have been like to be Métis before western civilization fully developed in North America
• Trappers tent that was set up, and discussion about survival on the land, and respect for the land

“Both Shauna and Marvin had a great way with the students,” says Heenan. “They gently shared their heritage and students were very engaged. Students leaned in and really listened. Like Tim Taylor, who we are fortunate to have working with our students everyday, both Shauna and Marvin have a great way with the students.”

Shauna Taylor says a highlight of the week was “witnessing how respectful and receptive the students were to the stories and learnings shared.”  She says it was especially meaningful to see her father present and speak directly to the students. 

Taylor says, “My father’s participation brought a powerful and personal touch to the experience.”  According to Shauna Taylor, her father shared that as a child, he faced racism that prevented him from finishing school. She says, “for him, presenting to the students served as a healing moment, allowing him to share his story and connect with the next generation.”

Logan P., a Grade 11 student, says, “Some highlights of the Métis residency from my perspective include the presentation on finger weaving, which gave me insight into Métis culture and traditional craftsmanship. Participating in this experience has been valuable because I learned more about Métis history and the people who lived here before us.”

Logan says, “I believe it is important for schools to offer these opportunities for students because it helps them connect with Indigenous cultures, understand their traditions, and appreciate the significance within our history.”

“We are grateful to have had the opportunity to provide this cultural residency for students,” says Dean Nielsen, Principal of HSS.  “Thank you to Shauna and Marvin, for the insights they shared with our students.The messages they shared with students were incredibly valuable, and contribute to our goal of ensuring students are welcome, accepted and celebrated in our school.”