Highlights: Anishnaabe Giizhigat / National Indigenous Peoples Day 2024

On June 21, TMU hosted events on campus to recognize and honour Anishnaabe Giizhigat / National Indigenous Peoples Day as a community. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography.)

Amy Desjarlais Waabishka Kakaki Zhaawshko Shkeezhgokwe (White Raven Woman with Turquoise Eyes), lead, Rebirthed Teachings, Indigenous Initiatives, Office of the Vice-President, Equity and Community Inclusion (OVPECI), opened the day in song. One song was a love song for Mishomis Giizis (Grandparent Sun) offering thanks for their work, and building trust that the sun will rise every day. The other song "Mino bimaadiziwin" aligned with the theme of the day to celebrate the good things in life. You can listen to Amy’s songs on Apple Music (external link) .(Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography)

Monica McKay, director, Indigenous Initiatives, OVPECI, welcomed those in attendance. She reflected on the challenges and barriers she has faced since joining the university 30 years ago, ands celebrated the progress that has been made. Monica is from the Nisg̱a'a Nation in Laxgalts’ap (Greenville), British Columbia, and a proud member of the House of Heewa’a and the Gisk'aast Pdeek (Killer Whale Clan). TMU leaders Elder Dallaire, President Mohamed Lachemi and Provost Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano also provided remarks. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography)

Attendees learned about the Skakeratshera'at / One Dish wampum covenant from Michael Doxtater, professor and head, Saagajiwe Indigenous Studios, The Creative School. He shared that the One Dish wampum recognizes that everyone living on this land "all eat from this One Dish". The treaty signifies a commitment to protect the land and its resources peacefully. Michael also shared teachings about the Two Row wampum and how the Canadian rafter was added by the Haudenosaunee to the continent-wide longhouse lodge in 1869. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography)

Community members got creative together to make customized buttons to wear for themselves or share. Also celebrating Indigenous History Month and Pride Month in June, one of the button designs included the Two-Spirit Pride flag. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography)

Abby Carpenter, president, Indigenous Law Student Association, Lincoln Alexander School of Law, taught attendees about Pow Wow dancing and regalia. She then led community members through a Pow Wow fitness class so they could try the dance for themselves. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography)

The School of Early Childhood Studies Family Programs led a children’s storytime circle. They read a selection of stories including "It’s a Mitig!" by Bridget George, an Anishinaabe author-illustrator and graphic designer. Each of the books read highlighted Indigenous authors, illustrators and stories. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography)

Master of ceremonies, Waasekom (Edward George) and Crystal Osawamick with the TMU eagle staff, buffalo skull, and blessed water from the sunrise ceremony. Waasekom is Anishinaabe of the Turtle Clan from the Saugeen First Nation and Stony Point First Nation. Crystal Osawamick Wiinkaushkwe (Sweetgrass Woman) is Anishinaabekwe from the Odawa Nation and is of the Turtle Clan. She is also the E-nankiid Anishinaabe Maawnjidowinan miiniwaa Shki-maajiishkaachiganan (Manager of Indigenous Events and Special Projects) within University Events and Ceremonies in the Office of the President, and led the National Indigenous Peoples Day organizing circle. (Photo: Nadya Kwandibens, Red Works Photography)