National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

Returning Home Society Hosts Community Engagement of Culture and Connection in La Plonge

September 29, 2025

The Returning Home Society hosted a day of culture, teachings, and connection for members of the La Plonge and Beauval communities. Throughout the day, participants came together to take part in a variety of hands-on cultural workshops, including sewing and crafting, and drum making, each filled with stories, laughter, and shared joy.

Children and adults alike enjoyed horse riding, provided by Tyler Tootoosis (Mistatim Healing), adding a special touch of excitement and community spirit to the gathering. Tobey Long, from the Navajo Nation, also shared and treated all the participants with his traditional fry bread.

Wehkees Durocher, Cultural and Events Coordinator for the Returning Home Society, continues to build capacity within the organization by creating spaces that honor culture, language, and connection, reminding us of all of the importance of community-led healing and cultural resurgence. 

Returning Home Society Brings Education and Awareness to Students at St. Louis School

September 30, 2025

The English River First Nation’s Returning Home Society had the honor and privilege of collaborating with St. Louis School in Patuanak to bring awareness of the former Beauval Indian Residential School, to honor Survivors and the children, and to share the importance of healing and wellness.

The day began with a community walk, followed by a presentation for both students and staff. Dawn McIntyre opened the event by welcoming Elder Marie Black, who began with a prayer, and invited the Chief of English River First Nation to speak on the significance of healing and honoring Survivors and their families.

Two former students (Survivors) of the Beauval Indian Residential School shared their personal stories, offering students a powerful opportunity to learn from lived experiences and to reflect on the strength and resilience rooted in culture and language.

Wehkees Durocher also shared a story reading of Every Child Matters by Phyllis Webstad, Karlene Harvey, and Marie-Christine Payette, creating a meaningful bridge between generations through storytelling.

The day concluded in a celebration of unity, healing, and remembrance. The event’s closing moments were filled with a powerful and heartfelt connection following Cyndi Powder’s presentation on Intergenerational Trauma and Healing, a reminder that through understanding, compassion, and shared stories, healing continues to grow within our communities.