York University Libraries will join the University to reflect on the theme of Engaging in a Reconciliation Journey: Learning Through Various Forms of Media as it co-hosts three screenings of Indigenous films at Scott Library. These screenings are part of a series of in-person events being hosted at both the Keele and Glendon campuses from Monday, September 18 to Wednesday, September 27.
Cora Coady, Indigenous Teaching and Learning Librarian at York University Libraries, remarks that York University Libraries is honoured to co-host these documentary film screenings, as they provide York students and staff with an opportunity to learn about the residential school system.
“The library is a partner in learning and teaching. The films tell the stories of residential school survivors,” says Coady. “Hosting the film screenings works to raise awareness and fosters a deeper understanding of historical injustices and the experiences of Indigenous peoples.”
Cora Coady, Indigenous Teaching and Learning Librarian at York University Libraries
The University will mark the day on Thursday, September 28 by hosting a hybrid community panel featuring the voices of staff reflecting on their learning journey, followed by a ceremonial fire at Skennen’kó:wa Gamig. There will be seven film screenings open to community members in several locations on the Glendon and Keele campuses, including Scott Library. Visit National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Film Screenings to RSVP.
These events are in-person only; however, all films are available online through the University Libraries’ collection and are publicly available. They can be accessed here.
The list of films to be screened at Scott Library includes:
Stolen Children: Truth and Reconciliation & Holy Angels
Date: Monday, Sept. 18
Time: 9:30 a.m.
Location: Sound & Moving Image Library, Scott Library
My Auntie Survived Residential School
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 20
Time: 1 p.m.
Location: Sound & Moving Image Library, Scott Library
Truth and Reconciliation: The Legacy of Residential Schools in Canada & Stolen Children: Residential School Survivors Speak Out
Date: Wednesday, Sept. 27
Time: 3 p.m.
Location: Sound & Moving Image Library, Scott Library
“At York University Libraries we not only facilitate access to information and promote critical thinking, but we have an ethical responsibility to build relationships and support Truth and Reconciliation initiatives,” says Coady.
York University has a long-standing commitment to access, inclusion, equity and diversity; it is a leader in creating a more equitable, diverse and inclusive community on all its campuses. The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is an important day to remind us to pause and reflect on the intergenerational harm that the Residential School systems caused to Indigenous Peoples across the country. It is a time to reflect on the strength and resiliency of Indigenous peoples. Importantly, it is a time for recognizing our shared responsibilities for creating new and better relationships with Indigenous people.
To register for these film screenings, visit https://yorku.ca/go/ND4TRfilmscreenings.