The Town of Saugeen Shores has commissioned a local Indigenous artist to help honour and commemorate residential school survivors.
In a release from the municipality, Saugeen Shores detailed how the town reacted to the news of remains found at former residential schools in Canada by partnering with the Saugeen First Nation to decorate the Zgaa-biig-ni-gaan bridge with orange ribbons. However, knowing the ribbons won't be around forever, the town decided to approach local Indigenous artist, Brent Henry, to "prepare a permanent tribute that will be prominently displayed at the Town Hall."
Saugeen Shores says the tribute created by Henry will be "a permanent testament to the pain, suffering, and death inflicted on indigenous children at Canada’s residential schools." The town hopes to unveil the tribute in the municipal office this fall.
“The Town of Saugeen Shores and Saugeen First Nation worked in collaboration to immediately recognize the Residential School situation” notes Chief Lester Anoquot, “And we continue to work together to advance permanent recognition at the Saugeen Shores Town Hall.”
“We are awaiting completion of this painting and hope that its display will act as a permanent reminder of the impacts that residential schools have had and continue to have on indigenous communities.” says Mayor Luke Charbonneau.