by Ross Nervig Communications Officer Mi’kmawey Debert Cultural Centre
Survivors, families, and community members gathered in Truro this September for the second Shubenacadie Indian Residential School Healing and Resilience Gathering, hosted by Mi’kmawey Debert Cultural Centre (MDCC). The event coincided with the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, a time of remembrance and reflection across Canada.
Over three days, attendees shared stories, joined workshops, and reflected on decades of advocacy that have led to the near completion of the Nora Bernard Commemoration Park, a new memorial site honouring Survivors of the former Shubenacadie Indian Residential School.
A Gathering Rooted in Survivors’ Voices
The event, held at the Inn on Prince, brought together Elders, artists, and leaders from across Mi’kma’kik and Wolastoqey territory. For Dorene Bernard (Sipekne’katik First Nation), a Survivor and member of MDCC’s Survivors’ Advisory Circle, the work represents a personal and collective commitment.
“This project is very important to me as a Survivor and as a descendant,” she said. “I have made a commitment to see it through to completion for all the survivors.”
MDCC Executive Director Tim Bernard (Millbrook First Nation) reminded participants that the commemoration project was shaped directly by Survivors’ direction during engagement sessions in 2018. “You told us what was needed—more gatherings, recognition of the school site, and commemoration ...
