Spirit Bear and Children Make History Exhibition
Based on true stories, the Spirit Bear and Children Make History exhibition shows how children of all diversities stand with First Nations to achieve what Elder Elmer Courchene called “loving justice” for First Nations children.
Spirit Bear and Children Make History is a child-friendly, multimedia exhibition featuring puppets and sets from Spirit Bear’s four stop-motion animated films by award-winning Indigenous Studio Spotted Fawn Productions and includes interactive elements to further engage children. The exhibition also showcases archival material from the landmark human rights case for First Nations children and Jordan’s Principle, the Shannen’s Dream campaign, and the broader movement for culturally based equity for First Nations kids.
The exhibition had a fantastic first run at The Exploration Place Museum & Science Centre in Prince George, BC, from June 21 - November 11, 2024. The inaugural exhibition was a collaboration between Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, the Caring Society, Carrier Sekani Family Services, and The Exploration Place. With over 12,000 visitors, including dozens of class and group visits, the exhibition was a great hit with kids and adults alike.
We're now transforming Spirit Bear and Children Make History into a first-class touring exhibition that celebrates the inspiring reconciliation actions of children and affirms the responsibility of all of us to end inequities in First Nations children’s services and implement the TRC Calls to Action.
Fun Fact
On September 6, 2024, Spirit Bear was honoured to receive the Key to the City of Prince George! Mayor Yu officially proclaimed September 6 "Spirit Bear Day" and said: “As I learned more about Spirit Bear during my visit to the exhibition, I wanted to do something on behalf of the City to acknowledge this amazing symbol that is Spirit Bear, and that he spreads such an important message in a gentle way for children. Every year on September 6, I want us all to recognize Spirit Bear and what he stands for.”
Watch here for news about where the exhibition will show next.
If you're a museum or other organization interested in hosting the Spirit Bear and Children Make History exhibition, please contact us.
Bear Shares is a 3D digital experience where you can ask Spirit Bear questions, and Spirit Bear will answer! Bear Shares is an interactive feature of the Spirit Bear and Children Make History exhibition, and is now also available online.
