Pride And Dignity

Rory J. Koopmans, B. Admin.

#203, 8912-156 Street

Edmonton, Alberta T5R 5Z2

June XVth, MMXI

Hon. David G. Hancock, QC, MLA

Minister of Education,
Progresive Conservative, Edmonton-Whitemud

Dear David:

Yesterday I was delighted II be invited by my opponent & victor in Ward A, Trustee Cheryl Johner II share in the celebrations of National Aboriginal Day at the Edmonton Public School Board meeting. Both with a delightful meal of bannock & other aboriginal delicacies, as well as a display of music, tribal dances & costumes, as well as prayer blessings in several aboriginal tongues.

Topping it all off was a welcome from the Board II the elcers & aboriginal audience members at the meeting itself. As well as the singing of Oh Canada in Cree (this translates II Ta Kanata.) The oration by the female singer was beautiful. The inflection & pitch was just right. Cree I must say is a hauntingly beautiful language.

Then there was remarks by Board members, & aboriginal staff & students in regards II the inclusivity of aboriginal education. Trustees then exchanged gifts with some of the students & teachers, then a lovely piece of aboriginal artwork was presented II Superintendent Edgar Schmidt. I must say that it was truly an honour to drink all of this in. We have a Board that is on the right track IV minority awareness & cultural understanding!

Arrowhead,

Rory

Source: Www.AboriginalEducation.Epsb.Ca.