Truth & Reconciliation Cotton

This Truth and Reconciliation Tribute Fabric brings together two powerful original drawings by Anishinaabe artist Jackie Traverse, whose work speaks deeply to healing, remembrance, and resilience. Created as a visual offering in acknowledgment, awareness, forgiveness, and healing, these images honour the children lost to residential schools and the generations of families affected by the 60s and 70s Scoop.

Jackie Traverse, a 70s Scoop survivor, shares that she drew the first image in honour of the children discovered at Kamloops, titled “They tried to bury us, they didn’t know we were seeds.” Through her art, Jackie found strength and clarity in a time of collective grief. The second image, drawn the following summer, portrays a brother and sister holding medicine and an eagle feather in prayer—symbols of the healing and continuation of spirit.

Her words accompany the fabric:

“Art has always been my medicine. Sitting with this image helped me to gather my thoughts, as it was a very difficult time for all when the discovery was made.
I thought of my siblings—so young and defenseless when they were taken—and prayed that they were loved and safe in the homes where they were placed.
The children want us to heal, to pray, and to live a good life for them. This is what I feel in my heart.”

Together, these two images form a tributary design—a fabric that embodies remembrance, resilience, and hope. It stands as a heartfelt contribution to the ongoing work of Truth and Reconciliation, honouring the spirit of the children, families, and survivors whose stories continue to guide the path toward healing.

Artist: Jackie Traverse (Anishinaabe, Lake St. Martin First Nation)
Design Theme: Truth and Reconciliation, Healing, Forgiveness
Uses: Regalia, Ribbon Skirts, Ceremonial Cloths, Wall Hangings, and Memorial Projects

Product is sold by the meter.