A Cup of Cold Water

Long before the unmarked grave sites at former residential schools became International news, there was a relentless effort by one man to bring dignity and respect to the final resting place of former students.

Overview

Long before the unmarked grave sites at former residential schools became International news, there was a relentless effort by one man to bring dignity and respect to the final resting place of former students. A Cup of Cold Water highlights how Alfred Kirkness advocated to expose the unkept condition of the cemeteries at the Brandon Residential School site. A team of archivists stumbled upon letters written by Kirkness in the 1950s and 60s to advocate for the maintenance and care of the grave sites before they washed away into obscurity. Kirkness’ strategic and persistent letters to various levels of government spoke for the children who died at the residential school. Due to Kirkness’ advocacy, we know the location of the cemeteries. And due to a team of archivists who discovered Kirkness’ correspondence, we now know the name of a man with a strong belief in humanity who understood the importance of “a cup of cold water given in love.”

Budget

$10