Small museum makes a big impact

By SaskCulture Staff November, 2025 Arts, First Nations , Indigenous, Truth and Reconciliation
Four people standing outdoors on grass with trees and hills in the background. Two wear bright orange shirts with designs and text, one reading “Every Child Matters,” while another wears a orange ribbon skirt and one a light blue shirt.

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In the small community of Climax, the local museum is creating space for reflection, learning, and connection. Through its Culture Days events, the Climax Community Museum commemorates the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on September 30, offering residents meaningful opportunities to learn, share stories, and strengthen their commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

A group of people sits in a circle under a canopy frame on a grassy area covered with fallen leaves. Most wear orange shirts, and white cabins with green roofs are visible in the background along with a tree with autumn foliage.
"[The reception has] been supportive, and it’s growing. We attract quite a group of diverse people. Not only is [awareness] spreading in our community, but it’s expanding beyond … reaching out into the rural areas."
- Marina Gryde, Curator, Climax Community Museum
A mannequin dressed in an orange “Every Child Matters” T-shirt, a colorful floral skirt, and a wide black hat with a matching patterned scarf.

This year, the Museum worked alongside First Nations artists, Knowledge Keepers, educators, and leaders - Clarence Oakes (Nekaneet First Nation), Sylvia Thorburn (Beardy’s and Okemasis First Nation), Dr. Sean Chandler (Aaniiih, Fort Belknap), and Gabriel Essaunce Lamarche (Beausoleil First Nation) - who shared their knowledge and experiences with the community.

Person at a table working on a craft project with leather pieces and string. The table has various supplies including scissors, pliers, plastic bags, and other crafting materials arranged on a red surface.
"I am very grateful to the people from Climax. I never thought that they would bring something like this here, to try to learn about what their forefathers didn’t understand."
- Clarence Oakes, Knowledge Keeper from Nekaneet First Nation
Two L'Assomption sash with vibrant red, yellow, blue, and white patterns are laid out on a table covered with a striped textile.

The Climax Culture Days Hub included activities such as flint knapping, beading and ribbon skirt presentations to foster understanding in the community.

A small beaded keychain shaped like an orange shirt with white bead trim and a gold necklace design, symbolizing “Every Child Matters.” Next to it are two circular beaded pieces with feather-shaped pendants, placed on a soft white surface.
Two people kneeling on grass covered with fallen leaves, working together on breaking a rock to create flint arrowheads. One person wears an orange shirt and yellow gloves, holding an rock while another assists.
Truth and Reconciliation