The "Side By Side: Our Stories" project was made possible through the Canada Alberta 150 Grant Program. Indegenous and non-Indigenous students explored personal stories and shared experiences in navigating connections to the Treaty 6 Landscape. Lance Burns and Kristen Forsyth faciliatated field trips and experiences in the Treay 6 area. Students met with Elder Bob Cardinal, as well as Dr. Dwayne Donald from the Department of Indegenous Studies at the University of Alberta. The Drama department went on a field trip was to Blue Quills First Nations College in St. Paul - a former residential school that was reclaimed in the 1970's as an Indigenous college.
The Project title "Side By Side" refers to the work of Fletcher and Makokis (University of Alberta New Trails Magazine, Spring 2017) on having Indengnous and non-Indigenous people moving together in a way that respects culteral identity and education. The diverse group of high school students engaged in this project which spanned a small period of time, will inspire a lifetime of reflection. The project works to celebrate the theme of "Side by Side" and bring an awareness to our youth and surrounding community about current Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives and stories. We want all particioants to learn from each other, work together and understand what it means to co-exist. The legacy created following the conclusion of the project will have a long-lasting effect.
The theatrical performance and art created for the show, will serve as conversational starting points within our school, city and homes.
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