EDIHR's Educational Display: "Yes, Here Too: Prince Edward Island's Indian Day Schools and Residential Schools in Canada’s Maritimes"

Posting Date(s)

Welcome to "Yes, Here Too," an educational display dedicated to exploring the profound and shameful history of Indian Day Schools and Residential Schools in Canada’s Maritimes. This exhibit aims to illuminate the experiences of Indigenous children and families who endured these institutions and to foster a deeper understanding of their generational impact. 

What You’ll Discover: 

  1. Historical context: Learn about the origins and development of Indian Day Schools and Residential Schools in the Maritimes. Discover how these institutions were established as part of broader colonial policies aimed at assimilating Indigenous peoples and erasing their cultures. 
  2. Cultural impact: Explore how these schools sought to suppress Indigenous languages, traditions, and identities, and the lasting effects this has had on communities. Understand the broader implications of these policies on Indigenous cultures and heritage. 
  3. The 94 Calls to Action: Discover current initiatives and ongoing efforts toward reconciliation, healing, and justice for survivors and their families. Learn about the role of education, community support, and policy changes in addressing the legacy of these institutions. 
  4. Interactive elements: Engage with interactive displays and multimedia presentations that provide deeper insights into the experiences of students and the historical context of these institutions. 

This display is a crucial step toward acknowledging and understanding the complexities of colonization. We encourage visitors of all backgrounds to attend, reflect, and engage in meaningful dialogue about reconciliation and the ongoing journey toward justice and healing.

Content warning: Subject matter and supplemental conversation include abuse, violence, assault, death, abduction, racism, sexism, classism, and cultural genocide. Conversation may also include suicide, substance use, and police brutality. The contents of this activity are based on real events in Canadian history and may be emotionally and intellectually challenging to engage with. 

Location: Kelley Memorial Building, Rooms 115-118 (Building 11 on the campus map) 
Dates: September 23 to September 27, 2024 
Opening hours: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm 

The northeast entrance of the Kelley Memorial Building features an automatic door with a 36-inch clearance. The door swings outward and leads to a ramp that is 62 inches wide. Please note that the ramp makes a sharp right turn, after which the width reduces to 36 inches.

At the end of the ramp, you will find the exhibit entrance, which has a door clearance of 32 inches and a small bump at the threshold. We encourage all visitors to reach out if you require additional assistance or have any questions regarding accessibility.