In a recent interview with CBC, Cree student-athlete Caleb Gunner shared the importance of ensuring that there are Indigenous spaces in city schools. Gunner shared his experience with culture shock after travelling from Mistissini in northern Québec to D’Arcy McGee High School in Gatineau, QC, where he was often the only Cree student in his classes. He explained that factors like the larger class sizes, the focus on an independent learning style, and the social belonging gap made the transition even more challenging. In light of this, he underscored the importance of the high school’s Goose Lodge, a dedicated classroom for Indigenous students, which he said is a place “where we feel at home. We can be openly, excited, have open minds, conversations, talk in Cree, and feel more like a community.” Goose Lodge teacher Chelsy Graham said that the space is a stepping stone for Indigenous students and that she hopes the school board creates more spaces in the future, such as Cree language classes.
