There’s a new space in Niverville where we can go to learn more about the land and the history.

Deputy Mayor John Funk admits the historical space at the Community Resource and Recreation Centre is much nicer than he anticipated. Rather than the dark, closed off room that Funk was expecting, this space is bright with an open concept.

Funk says it’s also great for this space to be open to public whenever the CRRC is open, rather than having limited time for people to appreciate the displays and information.

Despite the brightness, the displays include some of the darker spots in history, from settlers moving in and Indigenous nations being pushed out.

The opening ceremony was held on Thursday, September 30th, the first annual day of Truth and Reconciliation in Canada.

Peter Yellowquill was in attendance and he offered a blessing on the museum and all who visit. He’s a residential school survivor and 5th generation descendant of Chief Yellowquill, signatory to Treaty No. 1.

“Part of that reconciliation must be that we must educate one another,” he says, standing in a large room that is filled with many educational displays.

Yellowquill expresses hope for the future, encouraging each of us to count our blessings, and to take action that will lead to stronger relationships.

“We will reconcile,” he said after the opening ceremony. “I have every confidence in your faith as a people. I have every confidence in our faith; the traditional faith and the Christian faith, that we shall meet this obligation that we have to the ones that never made it home. To live, to forgive. That’s how we can honour them.”