EMSB to honour Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action

In order to honour the indigenous history of Quebec and Canada, in June, the EMSB’s Council of Commissioners adopted multiple resolutions aimed at further increasing awareness and understanding of the history, realities, and perspectives of Indigenous people in the classroom.

“It is an important step, one which has been long overdue,” said EMSB Chairman Joe Ortona. “This moment of reflection serves as a reminder that there were Indigenous people on our territory before the European settlers arrived. This land was never ceded away.”

The Council of Commissioners vowed to provide age-appropriate resources for students as well as professional development opportunities for staff. Currently, the EMSB is working to bring together stakeholders, university faculty, as well as members and leaders of local Indigenous communities as a means of achieving deeper learning.

Furthermore, the EMSB has committed to create and adopt an Indigenous Land Acknowledgement that encourages reflection and accountability, as well as to honour the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. The 94 Calls to Action, as outlined in a June 2015 report, seek to “redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of Canadian reconciliation.”

“While there is a lot that remains to be done, I am glad that the EMSB is doing its part,” added Ortona. “We will continue to do so as a board, as individuals, and as members of society.”

About the English Montreal School Board

With a youth and adult sector population of more than 35,000 students, the English Montreal School Board (EMSB) is the largest English public school board in Quebec. Established on July 1, 1998, when the province created new boards along linguistic lines, the EMSB network consists of 77 schools and centres. For more details, visit the EMSB website at www.emsb.qc.ca.