St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School Celebrates Indigenous Heritage Month Through Dance, Art, and Reconciliation

June 12, 2026

On June 11, 2026, St. Stephen Catholic Secondary School in Bowmanville welcomed Benishii Tryon of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation for a meaningful lunchtime celebration of Indigenous culture and tradition.

The event was organized by St. Stephen CSS School Chaplain Carmelina Dervent and Visual Arts Teacher Linda Bradley, with the support of parent contact Ms. Sidsworth of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. Together, they provided students and staff with a unique opportunity to experience the beauty and significance of the Traditional Pow Wow Jingle Dress Dance. 

Benishii performed two powerful jingle dress dances, sharing an important expression of Indigenous culture that is rooted in healing, resilience, and community. As students gathered to watch, they were invited to reflect on the importance of learning from Indigenous voices and celebrating the rich traditions that continue to thrive today.

The event also included a collaborative community art installation inspired by the theme “Hands for Faith and Reconciliation.” Students painted their hands and added their handprints to a large banner, symbolizing unity, hope, and a shared commitment to walking together in the spirit of reconciliation.

As a Catholic school community, the gathering reflected the Gospel call to respect the dignity of every person and to build relationships rooted in understanding, compassion, and justice. Through music, dance, and art, students experienced an opportunity to learn, reflect, and honour the cultures and contributions of First Nations peoples.

St. Stephen CSS extends its sincere gratitude to Benishii Tryon for sharing her gifts and teachings, and to everyone who helped make this special event possible. Together, we continue to grow in faith, learning, and reconciliation.