Connie Shea

The Hidden Histories project emerged from an anti-racism program provided in partnership with BGC (Boys and Girls Club) Greater Saint John. Over four months, Grade 11 and 12 students researched historical figures and events that were important in New Brunswick and Wabanaki Territory, but whose stories had too often gone untold. Students worked in teams, learning to critically analyze sources, identify bias, and apply historical thinking skills. From their research, they selected ten topics and created digitally interactive postcards containing information and artwork about the chosen person or event. They published and distributed 500 postcards throughout their community and shared them at a public launch event. Students also linked each postcard to an interactive website that provided more information about the topics and invited public feedback.

Hidden Histories fostered a deeper connection to the community’s full history while highlighting overlooked stories of First Nations, Black, and LGBTQ+ communities. It not only enriched public understanding of these previously marginalized stories but also empowered students to see themselves as active participants in preserving and sharing the diverse narratives of New Brunswick and Wabanaki Territory.