Averie and Rory's walk for Legacy of Hope

Since the news was released that 215 unnamed children were found in a mass grave on the grounds of a residential school, I have been at a loss for words and thoughts. I am exhausted beyond belief by the constant reminders of how Canada’s history is filled with genocide and the ongoing harm that systemic racism has on our peoples. I am exhausted from anti-racism classes (that are not only necessary for my degree but should be required for everyone’s). I am by no means frustrated for them being mandatory but the content we cover is acknowledged and common knowledge to so few that it is hard to have a week go by without having a conversation about systemic racism and why we can’t “just get over the past.”

At the bottom of this loss for words and actions, I’ve decided I’ll do what I do best;  walk my dog. 

Since adopting Rory I’ve spent a lot more time outside, walking and learning to acknowledge the emotions and frustrations that come with being an urban Indigenous student. It is a privilege that I am able to walk out in my neighbourhood safely and attend a university but for many others this is not the case. For hundreds of children, school was and is still not a safe place.  In honour of every passed child that has been found on the ground of residential schools in Canada, Rory + I will be walking 1 km and we will continue to do so until every residential school grounds have been searched. Any funds we raise will be donated towards the Legacy Of Hope Foundation, who’s goal is to raise awareness of the lasting impacts of the residential school system as well as promoting healing and reconciliation. 

For anyone who is in Saskatoon and would like to join Rory and I on a walk or two please don’t hesitate to reach out- good company is always good medicine. 

572 and rising... 

Want to join me in making a difference? I'm raising money to benefit Legacy of Hope Foundation, and any donation will help make an impact. Thanks in advance for your contribution to this cause that means so much to me.

More information about Legacy of Hope Foundation: Legacy of Hope Foundations mission is to educate, create awareness and understanding about the impacts of Residential Schools. LHF does this through ongoing development and implementation of Curricula and Educational Resources that uncover the history of Indigenous colonial experience in Canada. It is hoped that by educating people about the maltreatment in Residential Schools, ongoing systemic racism, and intergenerational trauma faced by Indigenous Peoples we can work toward healing and Reconciliation.