An exhibition at Gallery Stratford aims to spark conversation around truth and reconciliation.
Cree-Métis artist Jason Baerg’s exhibition titled “kwaayesh ka tootamakeayhk / Justice” explores the lasting impact of residential schools on Métis communities and offers a powerful critique of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s shortcomings.
The Toronto-based artist, activist, fashion designer and professor is critical of the federal government not comprehensively addressing the impact on Indigenous communities.
“So I’m advocating that we really consider justice, if you’re going to apologize to people, you’ve got to do that work and the government of Canada hasn’t.”
As a fourth generation survivor, Baerg explained that the second largest residential school in Canadian history was located in their hometown of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan and it closed when they were age 16.
Baerg is committed to advancing their discipline and justice for their people and welcomes people to check out their work at Gallery Stratford, on display until June 9.