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Did you know that only 35% of Aboriginal people (as defined by Stats Can) obtain postsecondary education? Alternatively, non-Aboriginals have a post-secondary accreditation rate of 51%. In addition, only 9% of Metis people graduate from University*. As I suggested with the last post, I’m no expert with statistics, but these numbers suggest to me that Canada has a bit of work to do.

Toronto, this city we call home, (or we at least spent time in to study), is traditional territory land of the Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation. I feel this is important to acknowledge and too infrequently done. After all, I would never walk into someone’s home without acknowledging the courtesy it was to be there.

I recently attended a Community Winter Social orchestrated by two organizations on campus, the Indigenous Education Network and Infinite Reach: a Métis Student Solidarity Network. Both groups aim to connect students on campus interested in Indigenous and Métis issues, research, and community building. Events such as this are a perfect example of how we, as students, can connect to issues and people on campus that might not otherwise have the opportunity to.

 

Organized as a potluck, the food was in abundance and the spirit was peaceful and welcoming. Arriving alone, I came with the intention to learn.  As someone with an investment in incorporating Indigenous knowledges into my future teaching practice, I feel at a bit of a loss as to where to begin. Quite frankly, I was not taught the rich histories and knowledges that belong to our First Nations communities. Truthfully, I think most of us have a lot to learn and much to gain.

Beginning the night were the words of Cat Criger, a traditional Aboriginal Elder from Cayuga (Guyohkohnyoh), Turtle Clan from the Six Nations Haudenosaunee. Cat works with the U of T community through UTM, OISE and First Nations House. His words came thoughtfully. Inspired by a few children in the room, he explained that although we may think of children as our future, they are also our past. They reveal our past lessons learned, and provide a lens to remind us of what we once were– profound words to hear for me, future teacher. My reconstructions of his words are only modest comparisons to the power of his message. I do them no justice here.

Featured entertainment included the Spirit Wind Drummers and a storytelling of Granny’s Giant Bannock by author Brenda Isabel Wastasecoot (I got myself a shiny, new, autographed copy). Amongst the lively entertainment conversations buzzed and hummed and truly reflected the spirit of the season that is so quickly upon us.

Events like these are exactly what I think University should be about – making connections and learning from others. Some times we need reminding that it is up to us to take the first step towards discovery.

*Statistics Canada