Lyndon Linklater holds a workshop on birch baskets with staff from the SRPSD on Sept. 22. (submitted photo/Shea Pilon)

By paNOW Staff

BIRCH BASKETS AND RECONCILIATION

Why birch baskets are key to a new partnership with SRPSD and Remai Modern

Sep 27, 2023 | 11:00 AM

Last Friday, staff from the division took part in a professional development event, meant to enhance their understanding of land-based learning.

It happened at Little Red River Park and involved members of the SRPSD, knowledge keeper Lyndon Linklater, and Kim Bird, the Indigenous Programs Coordinator, at the Remai Modern Gallery.

The collaboration and the event on Friday signified the start of a partnership between the school division and Remai with plans to create more opportunities for staff and students.

During the professional development event, teachers had the chance to learn the art of Birch Bark Basket making, gaining a deeper appreciation for the cultural significance of these practices.

As Indigenous Perspective Coach with the SRPSD Shea Pilon explained, it’s part of the division’s commitment to holistic education and diversity.

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“This collaboration signifies the importance of recognizing and respecting Indigenous traditions and knowledge,” she said. “By embracing land-based learning and cultural awareness, we pave the way for a more inclusive and enriching educational experience for all students.”

For Remai Modern, a spokesperson said the partnership started after the School Division inquired about a birch bark canoe built for the gallery last month.

“The canoe represents a shared experience that both Indigenous and non-Indigenous people can relate to. Building a canoe is an art form that links families and communities together,” a statement from the gallery reads. “It reinforces our commitment to reconciliation and reminds us of our responsibilities to live in harmony and peace amongst all living things.”

This eventually led to Lyndon Linklater coming to Prince Albert to offer staff at the division a workshop on birch bark baskets.

Indigenous Programs Coordinator at Remai Moder, Kim Bird said this development event is just the start of the partnership with the SRPSD.

“The most exciting part of this initial collaboration is the ability to continue to share knowledge with teachers and students through a documentary the museum is producing about the building of this birch bark canoe. It makes numerous curriculum connections and aids in several outcomes at various grade levels. A significant story of a historical past is being documented and we hope it can serve as a valuable resource across Saskatchewan and beyond,” she said.

Schools in the SRPSD will recognize the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation but classes will still be in session as the day has not been declared a stat holiday by the provincial government.

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panews@pattisonmedia.com