Akaitcho Hall Ceremony
On October 1, 2026, community members gathered at the former location of Akaitcho Hall (empty lot next to Sir John school) to bless the Land and start the work towards a new art gallery on the site.
Operating from 1958 to 1994, Akaitcho Hall was a residence for youth from across the North who attended the neighbouring Sir John Franklin School. Akaitcho Hall is one of the institutions recognized in the Indian Residential Schools Settlement Agreement (IRSSA). Demolished in 2007, the site is now considered to have a complex history and reputation. It is also the proposed future location of a territorial art gallery.
At Akaitcho Hall Gatherings in June 2025, community members shared that it would be important to bless the Land before moving forward. In advance of any work at the site, the NWT Art Centre Initiative hosted the ceremony and gathering on October 1. It happened the day after the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in order to invite youth from local schools. Co-organized by NWT Art Centre Initiative and an informal group of former students of Akaitcho Hall, in partnership with We Always Remember (WAR)Circle for Northern Residential School Survivors, North Slave Métis Alliance, and YK1.
It was a special day, with music, prayers, dancing, sharing experiences of Akaitcho Hall, and spending time together. Mahsi cho to all who attended! Mahsi cho to all of those who made it happen.
Support resources
National Indian Residential School Crisis line: 1-866-925-4419
Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868; Text 686868
Canadian Mental Health Association: 1-833-456-4566; www.crisisservicescanada.ca
Mahsi cho, quana, quyanainni, thank you
Bob Overvold, Sheila Kotchilea, Steven Anaktak, Kara Koyina, Camilia Zoe-Chocolate, Jenny Kalluak-Wasylkoski, Margaret Begg, Tammy Steinwand, WAR Circle of Northern Residential School Survivors, North Slave Métis Alliance, Dechinta Centre for Research and Learning, Tłı̨chǫ Government, Andrea Harding, Sir John High School, Marie Wilson, YKDFN Drummers, Dene Wellness Warriors, William Greenland, Gerri Sharpe, Besh’a Blondin, George and Lee Mandeville, Aleda Edjericon, Sandra Bowden, Tony Rabesca, Bob Dixon, Bill Braden, and everyone who joined for the ceremony!
“Bless the Land” graphic by Cody Fennell
With appreciation for funding from GNWT for National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.
