New Exhibit at Innisfil ideaLAB & Library Examines Residential School System

July 18, 2024

A new traveling exhibition is on display at the Lakeshore Branch of the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library. A National Crime: The Residential School Experience in Canada is on loan from the Legacy of Hope Foundation and can be viewed until August 25th, 2024.

This exhibition explores the creation of the Residential School System, the experiences of the students, its impacts and traumas, and Indigenous-led political action, healing, and efforts towards Reconciliation. The Legacy of Hope Foundation is an Indigenous-led organization, dedicated to educating and creating awareness about the Residential School System, visit www.legacyofhope.ca for more information.

Join us for an opening reception for the exhibition on Tuesday, July 23rd at 5:00 p.m. The evening will include opening remarks, a short video presentation, and light refreshments. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the exhibition and participate in the Seven Feathers Collaborative Art project.

The exhibition is available to view in both English and French. Warning: This Exhibition contains content that may be triggering to viewers and Residential School Survivors.

Seven Feathers Collaborative Art Project

Residents of all ages are invited to colour paper feathers designed by local Indigenous artist April Paul at community events this summer. The feathers represent the seven guiding principles in Indigenous Culture: Love, Respect, Courage, Honesty, Humility, Truth, and Wisdom. Once coloured, these feathers will be assembled into large rainbow wings, symbolizing unity and community spirit which will be unveiled at our 10th annual MakerFEST event on Saturday, September 14th, 2024.

Free Library Membership for Indigenous Peoples

In our commitment towards Truth & Reconciliation, we are excited to announce that we now offer free library cards to all Indigenous, Métis, and Inuit people living in Ontario. This includes access to physical materials, digital collections, and safe spaces. To find out more about getting a library card, visit our website.

Upcoming Indigenous-Led Workshops:

Join us at the Lakeshore Branch for two exciting workshops with Jennifer Bahinski of Bella Lovelee Beads. Jennifer is an Ojibwe and Ecuadorian beading artist and the owner of Bella Lovelee Beads located in Bradford, Ontario. These workshops are open to both Indigenous and non-Indigenous participants.

  • Ribbon Dreamcatcher for Kids: Children in grades 4-6 are invited to participate on Friday, August 16th from 1:00-2:00 p.m., cost is $5 and registration is required.
  • Beaded Necklace Pendant for Adults: This workshop for adults takes place on Friday, August 16th from 2:30-4:30 p.m., cost is $15 and registration is required.

Visit us online for more information or to register. For more information and for Library updates straight to your inbox, sign up for our eNewsletter today.