Mathxwí elementary in Abbotsford is the first school in the district to have its own orange, eagle-feathered crosswalk on site.
The school held a celebration recently for the Indigenous addition to the school, which leads directly to the front door.
The crosswalk includes seven white eagle feathers painted on an orange background, and the Abbotsford School District explained the significance of the feathers in a press release following the celebration.
“Each feather represents a sacred teaching recognized by many Indigenous communities across Canada - truth, honesty, love, humility, respect, courage, and wisdom,” they said. “The celebration commenced with three students, who had received teachings from Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, Darren Charlie, sharing this historical and cultural significance with the audience.”
The event was attended by members from the school community, Mathxwí First Nation, the president of the Fraser Valley Métis Association, the Abbotsford school board and school district staff.
Several people spoke at the celebration, including Chief Alice McKay of Mathxwí First Nation, board chair Korky Neufeld and assistant superintendent Perry Smith. All three emphasized the significance of the crosswalk in showcasing Indigenous culture within the school, highlighting how the initiative creates “inclusive and inviting spaces for everyone.”
“[They] recognized that events like this are stepping stones toward a more equitable and harmonious future,” the release stated.
“Our school district has been on a journey of learning more about Indigenous culture and embracing our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation,” said Neufeld. “Infusing visual elements like this throughout our schools is one meaningful way we can work together to honour Indigenous cultures, build empathy and respect for diversity, and promote a brighter future for all.”
One of the classes performed the Temxaxa sth’oqwi, the sacred salmon time song, under the guidance of Carlin Swift. A crosswalk procession was led by Tyrone Thomas and Ronald Francis-Modeste, guiding the guests and students outside for the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.
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