Indigenous Education teacher-librarian Michelle Chabot recommends I’m Finding My Talk by Rebecca Thomas to mark the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30 recognizes the tragic legacy of residential schools and honours the children who never returned home, the survivors, and all the families impacted. It coincides with Orange Shirt Day, which was started by the non-profit Orange Shirt Society to raise awareness of the individual, family, and community intergenerational impacts of residential schools.
I have chosen I’m Finding My Talk by Rebecca Thomas because it inspires brilliance in Indigenous students for several reasons, particularly through its themes of cultural reclamation, identity, and resilience.
It represents positivity in the light of truth and reconciliation by offering a hopeful, empowering message of reclaiming Indigenous identity and culture. It teaches Indigenous youth that despite historical challenges, they can find strength in their heritage, contribute to healing, and move forward with pride and confidence.
The author, Rebecca Thomas, is an award-winning spoken-word artist and Mi’kmaw activist. She is a second-generation residential school survivor. The vibrant illustrations in the book are by Mi’kmaw artist Pauline Young.
I’m Finding My Talk is available in SD42 libraries. It is also available as an audiobook on Sora.
