On March 7th our students came together at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights.

Climate Artivism & North Star Woman

A major highlight of the gathering was completing the final piece of the Climate Artivism project. Participants helped bring to life North Star Woman, a powerful artistic vision conceptualized by Indigenous artist and scholar Leah Fontaine. This collaborative effort showcased the intersection of art, activism, and environmental consciousness and will be featured in the Manitoba Social Science Teachers Association Spring Journal.

Nature Soundscape Experience

The Climate Artivism will be on display alongside a Nature Soundscape composed by K-6 students. Jennifer Engbrecht guided participants through the Nature Soundscape experience, immersing them in the sounds of the Nestawaya - The Forks in Winnipeg, to compose music. This activity reinforced the importance of deep listening and connection to the Earth.

Student-Led Climate Actions

School teams were given dedicated time to collaborate on their student-led climate action projects. These initiatives will be showcased at the Be An Upstander for Climate event on May 22, 2025, at the CMHR from 1:00pm - 4:30pm.  

Definition of an Upstander

According to the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (CMHR), an upstander is a person who recognizes injustice, understands their personal strengths, and uses those strengths to create positive change.

Keynote Address: Sergio Rodriguez

The keynote speaker, Sergio Rodriguez, UNESCO Programme Officer for Education and Coordinator for the UNESCO Associated Schools Network (ASPnet) in Canada, delivered an inspiring address. He highlighted the work of 12,000 ASPnet schools worldwide, all united in their efforts toward well-being for all, planetary regeneration, and lasting peace. 

Experiential Learning Workshops

Participants engaged in hands-on workshops designed to promote sustainability, resilience, and innovation, including:

• Green New World – Led by A.E. Wright students, this session explored solutions for a sustainable future.
• Prairie Plants – A deep dive into native plant species and their role in ecosystem restoration.
• Bike Blender – A fun, interactive way to demonstrate sustainable energy.
• Wellbeing & Climate Resilience – Strategies for mental and physical well-being in the face of climate challenges.
• Serious LEGO for Emergency Preparedness – A creative approach to building awareness and readiness for environmental emergencies.

This gathering was a testament to the power of collaboration, creativity, and education in addressing global challenges.