The Holy Family Catholic Regional Division (HFCRD) will no longer use the acronym FNMI.
At a recent Board meeting, Trustees have voted unanimously to eliminate it, opting instead for use of the full version of the name, First Nations, Metis and Inuit, to be used nation-wide. The board says that this motion was created in keeping with the spirit of the Truth & Reconciliation Commission.
“I am very pleased to see this motion passed,” said outgoing Board Vice-Chairperson Diane Arcand-Lavoie, who made the motion. “Taking the time to speak and write out the acronym respects the Peoples that are being identified. I believe that this motion will be very significant for the First Nations, Metis and Inuit stakeholders in HFCRD communities, because for too long now, Indigenous people have been thrown in the same ‘pot.'”
In a news release, the division adds that they’re also pleased that this issue is being taken up provincially, with the Alberta School Boards Association (ASBA) putting forward a similar motion at its own Board of Directors meeting.
It’s one of many initiatives that the HFCRD’s implemented to support each of the First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities, with each of its schools having a First Nations, Metis and Inuit Coordinator. Each one is responsible for infusing Indigenous cultures within their schools.
As well, St. Stephen’s School in Valleyview has even had a Cree Language teacher working there for the past year.
– Posted by BET
