Assiniboia Residential School Legacy Group
Outdoor interpretive signs were designed to accompany a commemorative monument and gathering place at the site of the former Assiniboia Residential School on Academy Road in Winnipeg, Manitoba. In partnership with the City of Winnipeg and architects Herbert Enns and Darian McKinney, the project was built by the Assiniboia Residential School Legacy Group, formed in 2017 when a group of Survivors agreed to form a non-profit organization inspired by the vision of former student Theodore (Ted) Fontaine. The panels highlight the voices of Survivors of this school, which was one of very few urban residential schools in Canada and the first residential high school. An interpretive sign was also designed for nearby Theodore Niizhotay Fontaine Park. Graphic design, print and production services were provided as well as obtaining and managing sign fabrication and on-time delivery. 2023
Quotations from Survivors are highlighted on the interpretive panels in English, Anishinaabemowin and Ininimowin.
Three signs were designed for the monument near the Assiniboia Residential School highlighting Survivors experiences.
On this site, over 800 students attended Winnipeg's Assiniboia Residential School from 1958–1973. Students were taken from First Nation reserves across all of Manitoba as well as Saskatchewan and Northwestern Ontario as illustrated on this custom designed map.
Wellington Park was officially renamed Theodore Niizhotay Fontaine Park in honour of Elder Ted Fontaine, who attended the nearby Assiniboia Residential School. This interpretive sign honours the story of his life. A new interpretive sign was launched in spring of 2023 on the grounds of the Assiniboia Residential School.
View related project: Assiniboia Residential Schools