For Immediate Release
Minden, Ontario
Monday, March 24, 2025
10:00 AM
Release # 25-32

Subject: Bakaan nake’ii ngii-izhi-gakinoo’amaagoomin: We Were Taught Differently, the Residential School Experience

Bakaan nake’ii ngii-izhi-gakinoo’amaagoomin: We Were Taught Differently, an exhibit created by The Muse, Lake of the Woods Museum, in conjunction with the NeChee Friendship Centre and the Lake of the Woods Ojibway Cultural Centre in Kenora, Ontario, will be on display at the Minden Hills Cultural Centre from April 1 to June 28, 2025.

This exhibit examines the Indian residential school experience, most particularly in the two schools that were located in Kenora, Ontario – Cecilia Jeffrey and St. Mary’s. It also includes mention of all six schools in Treaty #3, as many local residents were sent to schools outside the immediate Kenora area. The exhibit is reflective of the residential school experience across Canada, nation-wide.

Powerful images, text, video, archival material and personal recollections combine to tell the story of the residential school experience. Visitors will learn why residential schools were established, what life in the schools was like, the legacy of the schools, the recent settlement agreement, and Government and church apologies.

The primary objectives of this exhibit are to acknowledge this part of our history; to promote awareness about the residential schools and the long-term effect they had on the First Nations people; and to honour those whose lives have been touched by the schools. It is an exhibit for everyone.

The Minden Hills Cultural Centre includes the Agnes Jamieson Gallery, Minden Hills Museum & Village and Nature’s Place Interpretive Centre. The Minden Hills Cultural Centre is located at 176 Bobcaygeon Road, Minden, Ontario and is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Museum, Village and Nature’s Place are open seasonally. All are welcome. Admission by donation.

For questions regarding this exhibit, please call the Community Services Department at 705-286-1260 x 542. For more information, visit the Township of Minden Hills website at www.mindenhills.ca.

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