Youth voices lead conversation on Truth and Reconciliation in Welland

Indigenous students from across Niagara gathered in Welland this week to help shape local conversations about Truth and Reconciliation, sharing their perspectives on how communities, institutions, and organizations can move reconciliation forward.

Co-hosted by the City of Welland and the Welland Museum, the Youth Summit for Truth and Reconciliation was held June 8 at the Welland Museum. Invitations were extended to Niagara's four school boards, with students participating in discussions focused on advancing Truth and Reconciliation in their schools and communities.

The summit created a space for Indigenous students to engage in discussion on selected Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, while providing an opportunity for local Métis Council members, municipal staff, museum representatives, and educators to listen and learn.

Participants discussed Calls to Action related to youth programming, museum policies and practices, and the role of sport in reconciliation, ensuring their voices, perspectives, and lived experiences help inform how these commitments are understood and implemented at the local level.

“Reconciliation begins with listening, and this summit created an opportunity for young people to share their perspectives in a meaningful and impactful way,” said Erin Carl, supervisor of festival and events for the City of Welland. “The ideas, experiences, and insights shared throughout the day challenged us to think differently and reinforced the importance of creating spaces where Indigenous youth voices are heard and respected.”

Representatives from the Niagara Region Métis Council, including President Derrick Pont and Senator Jean-Jacques Séguin, participated in the summit alongside City staff and Welland Museum representatives.

“Museums have an important role to play in preserving history, sharing stories, and creating opportunities for learning,” said Lisa Mooney, executive director of the Welland Museum. “This summit demonstrated the value of bringing young people together to discuss reconciliation, identity, and culture while helping all of us better understand how we can move forward together.”

The City of Welland and the Welland Museum will continue reviewing the ideas, themes, and feedback shared during the summit to identify opportunities for future learning, programming, and community dialogue.

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For media inquiries, please contact:
Paul Orlando
Communications Specialist
905-735-1700 x2133
paul.orlando@welland.ca