Why is the project by Woodland Cultural Centre so important? Saving the Evidence of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School saves the truth.
This photo was taken by photographer Ian R. Maracle of an old chair in the Boy’s Playroom in the basement of the former Mohawk Institute Residential School.
This playroom holds many stories, from boxing rings and the boys constant violent brawls, to the windows perched at eye level will boys would wait for their parents to drive down the lane way and pick them up. Those that didn’t get picked up, remember crying at those windows.
The Save the Evidence campaign serves to save these stories, and restore the building so they can continue to be told.
The fundraising team has announced a $75,000 Goal to complete Phase 2 of the project. (read the Fall Campaign Letter here)
Community Donations to Save the Evidence Make All the Difference
We are so grateful to see the community coming together to fundraise for the Save the Evidence campaign. Over the last few years of this project so many individuals and organizations have risen to the call for support. We have had people hold bake sales, some are biking across the province like Maddy Pillon in the photo to the right. On Orange Shirt Day she biked to 3 Residential School locations across Ontario. Another biker Niinzhino Waabi-Miigwanag (Two White Feathers) has been raising money for various causes like Landback lane, Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, and of course Save the Evidence (picture on left)
Local businesses in Brantford and surrounding area have also stepped up. Businesses like Oakhill Marketplace held auctions on Facebook Live, and through rallying their customers around the cause, were able to donate more than $5000 to the campaign. (picture on bottom right)
Some businesses donating proceeds of merchandise sold, and there are even community members that are working out to show their support! The Sweaty Run Club has held group runs and held special fundraising events and made several contributions to Save the Evidence.
We also want to acknowledge 100 Sweaty Sweats from Alex McGillivray who is raising money sweating every day to donate on December 1st for Giving Tuesday where her donation and efforts will be matched!
When we all come together, we can achieve so much. Even the simple act of sharing this page, spreading the word with your contacts and networks and on your social media, goes a long long way.
The Save the Evidence campaign would not have made it this far into the project without the grassroots support of community members like you.
Make sure to respond to the Facebook Event and follow us on Instagram so we can update you of all the different fundraising initiatives that are ongoing from supporters.
If you’re looking for help on fundraising ideas our Save the Evidence team is here to assist. Contact ste@woodlandculturalcentre.ca for more information. This year fundraisers are getting ready for Giving Tuesday!
For one day only, a community parter the Dufresne-Ray Foundation is matching all donations that come through CanadaHelps for Save the Evidence. Also all donors will be entered into a special contest to be one of the first community members to be given an in person tour of the inside of the buildings and the renovations thus far.
