ANCESTORS VOICES: MUSIC AND EDUCATION FOR NATIONAL DAY OF TRUTH & RECONCILIATION

This new program was created to introduce an Indigenous songwriter and their song to classrooms across the country as part of a curriculum-based music program to acknowledge National Day of Truth & Reconciliation and to honour the children who didn’t return home, the survivors, and all others whose lives have been impacted by residential schools.

Ancestors Voices will

  • teach students about the history of residential schools and the importance of National Day of Truth & Reconciliation in an engaging manner that stimulates learning and discussion
  • demonstrate how music is a tool for storytelling and its importance in Indigenous culture
  • shine a spotlight on an Indigenous artist and their music
  • collaborate with Indigenous artists and Indigenous Educators to develop, present, and refine this program so that we can build upon this first year and introduce new Indigenous songs and songwriters each year to build a library of resources for National Day of Truth & Reconciliation

This is the start of what we hope will be a far-reaching and very impactful program to teach thousands of students about the importance of National Day of Truth & Reconciliation, and to do this through the power of music.

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Ancestors Voices 2025 Artist: Adrian Sutherland

Ancestors Voices 2024 Artist: Julian Taylor

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Click here to access the program resources.
“I’m proud to have been chosen to share my all-Cree song Kiyash with thousands of students and educators across the country, who are using music as a tool for learning, As a musician from Attawapiskat, I believe music carries our stories, our language, and our spirit. I hope this song inspires young people to learn and to walk together in love and respect.”
– Adrian Sutherland
“Music education is so vital and so important in our world today. It helps people connect and grow. It’s a universal language that teaches us about each others backgrounds, feelings, emotions, cultures and our collective history and spirituality. I’m so honoured to be asked to be a part of The Coalition for Music Education in Canada.”
– Julian Taylor