Barriere Elementary School (BES) is now the home of a unique art piece, which was installed during the 60th anniversary of the school to acknowledge National Indigenous Peoples Week in Canada.
On June 18, during a ceremony that included students from both the Simpcw First Nation Neqweyqwelsten School and Barriere Elementary, a very special art project was unveiled at the school. BES principal Mikel Brogan was there to introduce the project to students from both schools, parents, invited guests and staff.
"The project's name, Y7ucwmentwécw [YOUCK-MEN-TWE], translated from Secwepemctsín, means 'getting used to one another'," he said.
"This project is intended to symbolize acceptance and reconciliation. The layout is designed to look like a honeycomb in a beehive, emphasizing the importance of community. The blue frame honours the North Thompson River, a lifeline for the Simpcw people, and reminds us to respect the land and its caretakers."
Brogan explained that the mosaic was created by each student and contributor making a unique tile by drawing something of importance to them. "These tiles express what makes them feel welcomed and accepted. When put together, they form a beautiful glass mosaic that reflects our collective commitment to inclusivity and support for one another. As every student at Barriere Elementary knows, it is so important to support one another and to work as a team, which is why we always say, to make the dream work, it takes teamwork!"
Brogan pointed to the "heart of project" and acknowledged project coordinator Kiera Eustache, "who dedicated many hours planning and working closely with students to create the beautiful tiles" for the mosaic. He also honoured talented local artists, including Leeann Eustache, who "beautifully designed the Indigenous animals" featured in the medicine wheel at the project's centre, as well as his parents, Marina Papais and Daniel Collett, for devoting countless hours to "transforming our shared vision into the breathtaking wood-framed glass mosaic" finished piece.
The event included drumming by students from both local elementary schools, who were led in an honour song by coordinator and mentor Kiera Eustache, and speeches by PAC president Nikki Shewan and Neqweyqwelsten teacher Travis Hall. These were followed by flower presentations of thanks to the artists — Leeann Eustache, Marina Papais and Daniel Collett — for their design work and craftsmanship. along with a flower bouquet of thanks to "Miss Keira".
School District #73 representatives were also on hand to support the unveiling, including local trustee Rhonda Kershaw.
Brogan's parents, Papais and Collett, expressed their joy in helping to create the tiles, and explained how the hexagonal design touches on all sides.
"Every side is somehow connected to another side of the community, showing strength and unity," said Papais. "We were amazed by each tile the students came back to us with. It's so beautiful."
"This mosaic is a product of collaboration, with each tile created by our students, with help from staff and families of our two schools," said Brogan. "Your creativity and dedication have led to a beautiful project that showcases our shared sense of belonging and community spirit.
"As we unveil this project today, we are celebrating more than just a beautiful piece of art. We are celebrating our commitment to creating a place where every student and every person feels they belong. This mosaic stands as a daily reminder of our promise to build a community where everyone is accepted and valued. Thank you all for being a part of this journey."
Broan also reminded everyone that the project will remain in the school for years to come, and noted that it represents the 10 Secwépemc Beliefs for Good Living: Being close to the spirit; Respecting each other; Helping each other; Being honest; Doing the right thing; Staying healthy; Taking care of the Earth; Knowing how to take care of yourself; Not depending on others too much; and Doing your share of work
"These beliefs are not just cultural guidelines; they are universal values that ring true for all of us," said Brogan. "They provide a common ground for students to connect, regardless of their individual backgrounds.
"By integrating these values into our project, we create a shared foundation that strengthens our community and reinforces the idea that everyone has a place here. These values coincide with Barriere Elementary’s core values of being Kind, safe, respectful, and responsible."
