At Acsenda School of Management, we are deeply committed to the journey of education, which encompasses learning, relearning, and decolonizing. In celebration of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we held a special event to reflect on the history and legacy of Indigenous Peoples in Canada. This event, hosted on our campus, featured insights from Charlene Leone, an Indigenous Elder and ASM faculty member, alongside student reflections and a virtual guest appearance by UBC researcher Meaghan Efford.
Through our diverse programs and clubs, including the Managing Decolonization and Diversity (BADM320) course and the efforts of our HRM Club, we aim to integrate Indigenous knowledge and culture into our learning environment. The event also included a powerful reflection on the “Orange Shirt Day” campaign—a movement honoring Phyllis Webstad’s story and the many children who lost their culture and identity in residential schools.
Student Reflections on Truth and Reconciliation:
Alejandro Ortiz Quintero – Bill Reid Gallery of Northwest Coast Art Visit
Alejandro reflected on his visit to the Bill Reid Gallery, where he gained a deep appreciation for the intricate art and storytelling of Northwest Coast Indigenous Peoples. He expressed how the gallery connected him with Indigenous culture through the lens of art, a medium that speaks volumes without words.
Camila Natalia Escajeda Davila – Each Child Matters
Every Child Matters – Reflection by Camila Escajeda Today we are gathered in the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Tsleil-Waututh and Squamish Nations to reflect on the painful legacy of residentials schools in Canada, in the world.
We are gathered to reflect on the importance of the beautiful orange movement, “Every Child Matters” and to honor life…life in the diverse nation we live in, life of the indigenous children who were taken away from their families, stripped from their culture, and denied basic human rights.
Today and every day let us be reminded of the importance of accountability and healing for survivors and for us as we move toward reconciliation. We can not change our past, we don’t want to erase our past…we are here to acknowledge our past and learn to never make the same mistakes again; and when we say never again, it means never again to nobody and anybody.
Every person, every child, regardless of their background deserves to feel loved, valued, and supported. When we say EVERY CHILD MATTERS, we are committing to ensuring that no other child is ever left behind or made to feel invisible.
We are committing to creating a better world where all children can thrive, all cultures are appreciated and encouraged, all voices are heard, and all identities are respected. I invite you all to join this fight and stand together to honor the past and continue building a better future where every child TRULY matters.
Vince Sendrijas – Personal Experience from Diversity Class
Vince highlighted how the Managing Diversity course opened his eyes to the systemic injustices faced by Indigenous communities. He discussed the importance of understanding diversity through a broader lens, which includes the rich, yet painful history of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
Marycruz Gutierrez Alonzo – What I Learned from the Four Seasons of Reconciliation Workshop
Marycruz reflected on the valuable insights she gained from the Four Seasons of Reconciliation workshop. The course not only expanded her knowledge of Indigenous history but also deepened her empathy and understanding of the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Elnar Jay Torres – MIS Club Member’s Reflection on the Orange Campaign
I want to share my reflection about this weekly theme about the national day of truth and reconciliation. In the past week we the MIS club was given the opportunity to participate in the orange campaign where we researched, reflect, and share about this federal statutory holiday.
Reading the story of Phyllis where when she was a child and in her first day in the residential school her Orange shirt was taken away, a symbol of losing culture, identity and dignity. What I found intriguing was this one story that opened the dark history of Canada.
As international students most of us saw Canada as this very friendly, beautiful and wondrous country that can give us the opportunity to develop our careers.
Canada is now mixed with different cultures and backgrounds from different countries but what I want to learn more about is the Canadian culture and I don’t mean about drinking tim hortons, playing ice hockey and saying “ey” in every end of a sentence.
What I want to learn more about is the indigenous tribes in this country and their culture, their stories and their beliefs. In the behalf of the MIS club we are thankful for giving us this opportunity to share and reflect about the national day of truth and reconciliation.
Jessa – HRM Club Member’s Reflection on the Orange Campaign
Jessa from the HRM Club shared her reflections on the power of awareness. Hi everyone, my name is Jessa, the President of HR Club.
The HRM Club has been promoting the life and culture of Indigenous peoples in Canada through gaining deeper insights in one of our courses like Managing Diversity (BADM320) and inviting students to tour at Bill Reid’s art gallery. These engaging and learning practices have made every member of our organization recognize that decolonization is about the commitment to change and not just a mere theoretical activity.
For the month-long digital campaign, our club was given the responsibility to cover week 2 with the theme “learning, re-learning, and decolonizing”. We had a series of meetings wherein we shared our knowledge – some are aware while others were not. This made me (as an individual/leader/student) realize the purpose of this campaign- to help Acsenda as an organization advance truth and reconciliation.
You see all of us in this room are taking part in it because it is our personal and collective responsibility to know the historical truth of the country that we are in and immerse ourselves because in that way, we would be able to build a more just and equitable future.
Cherry – Hospitality Club Member’s Reflection on the Orange Campaign
And I remember,
Back home in the land of my birth,
Where the Philippines cradled the stories of earth,
I worked closely with those in need,
For I come from the oldest province, indeed—
Where the roots of Indigenous culture run deep,
Where their strength and wisdom we always keep.
Earth is our home, their stories sing & rise,
Whispers of ancestors under blue skies.
Long for warmth, now proudly hold & told,
A story of a kingdom, a history bold and gold.
In the symphony of forests and ocean waves,
They guide tourists through enchanted caves.
With mountains high and rivers deep,
Their spirit, their wisdom, we heartfeltly keep.
Its shadow will reveal the past,
They create a future that will last.
In every amazing craft, every tale they share,
Tourism arises, praises their ancient care.
Success is not in wealth or gold,
But in the heritage they behold.
A gift of culture, of land, of soul,
The Indigenous of Canada stands whole.
Through trails concealed before,
They welcome the world, and open the door.
In the beauty of their rise, we see,
A tourism shaped by love and integrity, let’s set free.
May the missing kids have a wonderful tour and enjoy their land, their home.
They deserve all of this because in the first place, this should be there safe place.
In every place, food, and culture a part of it is celebrated by the Hospitality Industry where Canada is known for its service industry.
Thea – Marketing Club Member’s Reflection on the Orange Campaign
I want to share some reflections from my recent experience with the Orange Campaign digital activity, which focused on highlighting the success stories of Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
The Orange Campaign, as many of you know, is a movement aimed at raising awareness about the impacts of residential schools and promoting reconciliation. This particular digital activity was designed to shift the focus from the painful legacy of these schools to the vibrant achievements and contributions of Indigenous communities today.
As we engaged with this digital platform, the Marketing Club was deeply moved by the powerful stories of resilience and success. Each story showcased individuals and communities who have not only survived but thrived against significant odds. From entrepreneurial ventures to cultural revitalization efforts, these success stories are a testament to the strength and determination of Indigenous Peoples.
One key takeaway from this activity was the importance of shifting the narrative. While it’s crucial to remember and address the injustices of the past, it’s equally important to celebrate and support the ongoing achievements and positive contributions of Indigenous communities. These stories are not just about overcoming adversity; they’re about innovation, leadership, and cultural renewal.
From a marketing perspective, this experience has provided valuable insights into how we can use our skills to promote and elevate positive narratives. In our field, storytelling is a powerful tool. By focusing on success stories and achievements, we can help build more nuanced and respectful representations of Indigenous Peoples.
The Marketing Club is beyond grateful for the opportunity to support this campaign. Thank you, once again, good afternoon, and every child matters.
Faculty and Staff Reflections
Faculty and staff members also shared their reflections, emphasizing the importance of continuing to learn and engage with Indigenous histories and cultures. Their contributions reinforced Acsenda’s commitment to creating a learning environment that honors the voices and experiences of Indigenous Peoples.
This event underscored the power of education in fostering understanding, empathy, and action. As we reflect on the past and look toward the future, we remain dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities and ensuring that every child matters.
INTERNATIONAL THINKING. INDIVIDUAL FOCUS
