You are invited to experience:
The History of Turtle Island
from an Indigenous Perspective
on Wednesday, October 15th at the SJV Hall
Parishioners of both St John Vianney & St Ann’s Parishes are invited & encouraged to attend this insightful & thought-provoking experience of how North America has developed since the arrival of the first European settlers. While everyone is encouraged to read the wide variety of books & articles on this important issue, experiencing the Blanket Exercise provides attendees with a first-hand visual & oral understanding that cannot be found in the written word.
Register before Sunday, October 5th!
There is no admission fee, but we need you to register so we can plan for the number of attendees at each of the 2 sessions available. You may register by email to mlr1@telus.net stating your name, phone number & preferred session (1pm or 6:30pm).
If you have any questions, please chat with Deacon Peter & Lynn, Holly & Todd Romano, Lorne Raymond or Fr Neil.
The Blanket Exercise is an interactive, participatory workshop designed to educate participants about the historical and ongoing relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. It uses blankets spread on the floor to represent land, and participants step into the roles of Indigenous peoples, experiencing the impacts of colonization through a narrative and physical journey. The exercise aims to foster understanding, respect, and reconciliation by prompting reflection on the historical context and current realities of Indigenous communities.
Experiential Learning:
Instead of traditional lecture-style learning, the Blanket Exercise is an immersive experience where participants actively engage with the material.
Blankets as Land:
Blankets are used to symbolize the land, and participants are invited to step into the roles of First Nations, Inuit, and later Métis peoples.
Narrative and Physical Journey:
As the exercise progresses, participants hear stories and scripts related to key events in Indigenous-settler history, while physically moving across the blankets.
Colonization and its Impacts:
The exercise highlights the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples, including the loss of land, forced relocation, and other social and cultural disruptions.
Reconciliation and Action:
The exercise encourages participants to reflect on the past and consider how to move forward in a way that promotes understanding, respect, and reconciliation.