A healing event for residential school survivors in the La Ronge area was attended by about 200 people yesterday.
A boat burning was held at a high school located on a Lac La Ronge Indian Band reserve.
Elder Catherine Charles took part in the ceremony.
She says it is one step in the process of getting over the painful residential school era:
“It meant a lot to me. I had brothers and sisters there. My dad didn’t go to school — but my mom did, and all my aunts were involved there. It hurts, but it’s better. It’s better that way. I’m at peace now.”
Former residential school students were invited to write about their memories.
The notes and other articles were placed in the boat, which was then set on fire.