PROJECTS
Movement Launch
Where the Journey Began
In response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, and to honour the students and Survivors of St. Augustine Indian Residential School in Sechelt, the syiyaya Reconciliation Movement was officially launched on April 25, 2018, at the shíshálh Longhouse. Guided by the spirit of sk’ak’ts’itawilh—people working together—the launch marked the beginning of a community-led journey of truth, healing, and reconciliation.
The celebration began with a community potluck feast, followed by a ceremony emceed by xwash Steven Feschuk, Protector of Culture for the shíshálh Nation. The program featured performances by the tl’ikw’am Dancers, welcoming remarks from Movement Co-Chairs Ɂakista xaxanak Garry Feschuk and Cameron Reid, powerful testimonies from Residential and Day School Survivors, and an introduction to the Movement by John and Nancy Denham.
Guests also witnessed the presentation of gifts, reflections from Witnesses, and moments of gratitude and connection. It was a powerful beginning—one that laid the foundation for a grassroots movement that continues to bring people together in the spirit of reconciliation.
