8 Indigenous students honoured with special stoles at Niverville graduation ceremony

In a heartwarming gesture of recognition and pride, Niverville High School celebrated its Indigenous graduates with a special addition to their graduation attire at the end of June.  

Katie Martin, a flex teacher at the school, shared the story of how the idea came to life. 

"Back in September last year, we were brainstorming ways to honor our Indigenous students. One idea that stood out was to do something special for our graduating class. Initially, we thought about beadwork or gifts, but as June approached, we still hadn't settled on anything concrete." 

Martin notes that it was during this time that leftover materials from a ribbon skirt project sparked a creative solution.  

"We decided to purchase stoles and sew ribbons onto them. It was a way to integrate a cultural touchstone into the graduation ceremony." 

For those unfamiliar with stoles, Martin likens them to scarves worn around the neck, open at the bottom. She adds, "They wore the same gown and cap as everyone else, but with this addition that symbolized their Indigenous heritage.”  

Niverville High School student Brooklyn Enns, proudly wearing her Indigenous stole at grad (Photo submitted)

Martin says the response from the students was overwhelmingly positive. "When we announced our plan to the graduates, they were thrilled. Eight students immediately signed up to participate. Then on the morning of graduation, as we handed out the stoles, you could see the pride on their faces."

Martin says, the initiative also sparked curiosity among non-Indigenous students. "It wasn't heavily promoted, but many students asked about the stoles. It was a chance for cultural awareness and recognition within the school community." 

Describing the process as "beautiful," Martin emphasized the collaborative effort involved. "From purchasing materials to sewing and preparing for the ceremony, many staff members and students contributed. We even held a smudge ceremony on graduation morning to honor the occasion."

Smudge ceremony with the Indigenous stoles prior to Niverville High School grad 2024. (Photo submitted) 

Looking ahead, Martin says that the school plans to continue celebrating Indigenous heritage in other ways.  

"We have plans for Truth and Reconciliation Day in September. Our Ribbon Skirt group, which started this year, will expand. We aim to create more cultural pieces and provide opportunities for students to connect with and celebrate their heritage." 

Reflecting on the impact of the initiative, Martin notes, "It's about fostering pride and inclusivity. These gestures matter, not just for our Indigenous students but, for our entire school community. It's about recognizing and honoring diverse identities."