From this article and plan I have found several interesting objectives I'd like to discuss and highlight. (Mind you it was very hard to narrow down the ones I wanted to address).
8. Promote the inclusion of diverse parties in the process of academic program reform (i.e. local Indigenous educators, Elders, students, faculty colleagues from FNUniv, Indigenous alumni, and community members) – addressing governance early on may ensure that academic programming reform reflects the priorities, interests, concerns and experiences of local Indigenous peoples
What a novel concept to include those who are knowledgeable and experienced in indigenous interests, concerns and priorities. This practise should be included across all programs. Including Elders and local community members in the planning and discussions shows a great deal of respect and that we value their voice of current and past realities.
17. Create physical spaces that reflect Indigenous peoples histories, contributions, languages and diversities. Review and develop signage, bulletin boards, and promotional materials for inclusion of diverse students, staff and faculty?
[2] When you look around your post secondary setting what do you see and hear? Are indigenous students represented. Do you see flyers in native language, do you see Indigenous educators on the faculty? What impact do these physical spaced have for all students and faculty? Above is one of the new additions to Algonquin colleges landscape. It was built to promote Truth and Reconciliation.
21. Develop and sustain programmatic approaches to the inclusion of Indigenous knowledge.
Developing these programs will take time and money and resources but sustaining the approaches to inclusion of these Indigenous knowledge is going to take passion and energy and a drive for success.
26. Consider department based celebrations and welcoming events targeted at getting to know your Indigenous learners.
I haven't personally attended any of the welcoming events offered at Algonquin College but I plan on doing so in the near future. On campus they have the Mamidosewin Center- a place with a mandate to " empower and support Indigenous students into the next phases of their lives in a way that is respectful and reflective of Indigenous cultures." [2]
41. Read Herman Michell’s book, Working with Elders and Indigenous Knowledge Systems: A Reader and Guide for Places of Higher Learning.
I loved that this was included in their 100 ways to Indigenize. I encourage all of you to find one book or resource to read and share with others whether its colleagues, students or family.
47. Indigenous learners are here to learn. Expecting them to fill in the curricular gaps by addressing Indigenous issues is an unfair burden that is not shared with other learners; nor do they get “extra credit” for doing so. You must be the catalyst. You are in the position of power in the classroom; if you are ill-prepared to bring forth Indigenous topics, and then utilize your material and human resources to do it with you.
I thought this was a great addition to the paper. What a wonderful reflective practise to remember that all students are here to learn and aren't responsible for addressing issues. Be a catalyst!!!
References
[1] Pete. S. 100 ways to Indigenize and decolonize academic programs and courses. [Online]Accessed: January 15, 2019.
[2] McLester. R. (2018). Algonquin College creates a space to promote Truth and Reconciliation. [Online] https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/2018/12/11/algonquin-college-creates-a-space-to-promote-truth-and-reconciliation.html. Accessed: January 17, 2019.
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