Truth & Reconciliation

21 October 2026Kionah W, Allard ‘27

At Brentwood College School, Truth and Reconciliation is not simply a concept learned; it is an active commitment that shapes our community and campus towards a better future for the Indigenous Peoples of Canada – for all Canadians. 

Over the past year, our commitment became visually and spiritually cemented on our campus through the art of Coast Salish carver Beau Wagner. Beau worked on campus, transforming cedar into two magnificent Welcome Figures. Students had an opportunity to learn from his teachings and skills, watching the wood take shape day after day, witnessing the storytelling and cultural significance embedded in every cut of the chisel. 

This year I had the honour to participate in the unveiling of the figures; they were raised in front of the Centre for Innovation and Learning (CIL) during a special ceremony of tradition and respect. Standing tall, visible from land and sea, these Welcome Figures serve as a daily reminder that it is our shared responsibility to honour the land we are privileged to live and learn on, and to sustain the fight for Truth and Reconciliation.

On National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, the movement towards reconciliation extends beyond the Brentwood gates. Each year, the school sets aside regular routines as we fan out across the region to participate in community events. 

“The Grade 9s participated in the Every Child Matters walk with the Malahat Nation. It was a memorable experience and the 9s enjoyed getting to know the members of Malahat Nation and being part of such an important day. Afterwards, they witnessed the Brentwood ceremony when the welcome figures were revealed, and they got a first-hand experience of how important this moment was on campus for not only the Brentwood community but also Malahat Nation,” shares Ms Langer, Metamorphosis 9 teacher. 

The Grade 10s and 11s travel to Duncan to participate in the local Truth and Reconciliation Walk. Marching side by side with local residents, students gained a deeper understanding of the history and resilience of Indigenous communities. Reflecting on the experience, Lucy M, Allard ‘28, shares, “Walking through Duncan alongside so many people showed me that it is important to show up and to honour the survivors of residential school together.” 

Meanwhile, the Grade 12s travelled south to Victoria to attend the South Island Powwow. Held at Royal Athletic Park, this gathering brings together dancers, drummers and nations from across the region to celebrate Indigenous culture, strength and unity. “Being at the Powwow was amazing; the energy of the drums and seeing so many people supporting Truth and Reconciliation reminded me that it is important for everyone to respect and honour Indigenous communities,” shares Ivana Y, Mack ‘27. 

Brentwood’s approach to reconciliation is rooted in action. By participating in local traditions, watching Beau Wagner carve the Welcome Figures, and creating space for reflection, our school community continues to take steps on the essential path towards Truth and Reconciliation, healing Canada’s wounds, and building a better future. As an Indigenous person myself, I truly believe that we are far from healed. I hope one day that Canada will reach a place where Indigenous voices are not just heard, but honoured as foundational to the identity we all share. 

Every Child Matters. 

Kionah W, Allard ‘27