I am writing in support of the Red Lake Museum adapting the exhibition Residential Schools: The Red Lake Story, which was presented last year, to an on-line virtual exhibit.

We are looking forward to hosting this exhibit at our site in 2008, and appreciate the work of the Red Lake Museum in creating the exhibition. We are very aware

of the time involved in researching, gathering photos, diaries and oral history, and designing and creating an exhibit.

Presenting this exhibit on line would allow the opportunity for the work already accomplished, and the successful presentation to be seen by an expanded audience.

The exhibition Residential Schools: The Red Lake Story is a story that affects most communities in Northwestern Ontario. The creation of an on line exhbition will being this story to an even wider audience. It will be an important resource for student to learn about this time period. The story is a timely one and access to this exhibit will give aboriginal students and opportunity to talk about the experiences of their families and non-Aboriginal students insight on the sufferings of the children in residential schools and the impact on today's generations.

It is very important that our local histories are documented and presented beyond our communities. The development of on line exhibits is a great opportunity to bring our stories to the public.

Sincerely,

Pan Hawley

Curator

Fort Frances Museum