StFX German Society hosts events commemorating both 35 years of German reunification, and Truth and Reconciliation

October 7, 2025

On the StFX German Society and the German 101 and 201 classes commemorated 35 years of German reunification, emphasizing the late Canadian Prime Minister and StFX alumnus, the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney’s significant role in the Open Skies conference in February 1990.

The commemoration included several presentations, from the German 101 and German 201 courses, along with guest speaker, Myka Burke from the German Embassy in Ottawa, and Dr. Mark Leeming, who discussed historical connections.

“The students delivered a presentation on what walls mean to them, the history of walls around the world, and an impressive report about the fall of the Berlin Wall,” says German coordinator Marlis Lade.

Additionally, Anastasia Friedel and Stephan Lesky, exchange students from Stuttgart, spoke on today’s perspective on reunification.

“The StFX celebration of 35 years of German reunification was a wonderful culmination of language, culture, and community. Guest speakers Myka Burke and Mark Leeming emphasized that only through unity and togetherness can we continue to build lasting cultural connections,” says StFX student Allie Fennell.

Other students commented on how events like this are informative and impactful and help them to learn more about Germany’s history and culture and become more involved in the language.

TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION CONCERT WITH ALAN SYLIBOY

A few days earlier, on September 30th, the German Society hosted its third annual concert on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation, with Alan Syliboy and the Thundermakers at the Schwartz Auditorium.

Lucy Henkel, a German 201 student, delivered the land acknowledgment, welcomed the audience, and introduced Alan Syliboy and his band.

During the performance, Prof Lade says Aaron Syliboy, the daughter of Alan Syliboy, paid tribute to this special day by reading a poem by Rita Joe: ‘I Lost My Talk.’ The band also paid tribute to Willi Dunn, who was inducted into the Aboriginal Walk of Honour in Edmonton and received a lifetime achievement award at the Indigenous Music Awards. The band is working on music by Willi Dunn.

Prof. Lade said the song “Mother Earth Warning” by Hubert Francis received much applause, and a jam session at the end of the performance energized the large audience, prompting loud cheers.

NT4