Confederation College kicks off Truth and Reconciliation events

Confederation College kicked off it's  Truth and Reconciliation events on Friday with a feast.

College president Michelle Salo said their goal is to embed Indigenous knowledge into college programming to make it a safe space for Indigenous students while also helping non-Indigenous students learn about Indigenous history.

"It's not just about today, this month, it's about reconciliation throughout the entire year," said Salo.

Throughout the week leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Monday, Sept. 30, Confederation College will be offering activities including teachings, beading classes and readings of Indigenous literature. 

Salo said students have displayed a healthy level of interest in the programming on offer — particularly the international students. 

"We see a lot of engagement in terms of wanting to understand the history and past of Indigenous peoples," she said. 

"I think there's a lot of similarities between some countries and some of their Indigenous history as well. So I think they can draw these parallels to what's happened in Canada to their own countries," Salo said. 

It's important for educational institutions to host events like these in order to foster better relationships with Indigenous peoples, said Wendy Landry, the college's Vice President Indigenous Leadership, Partnerships and Strategies. 

"In order to move forward with reconciliation, you need to know our truths and you need to know our true history," said Landry. 

Some Canadian schools' curriculum has previously faced criticism for perpetuating racism or stereotypes of Indigenous people. Landry said she's witnessed the slow journey of change over the years as Indigenous peoples have fought to have their perspectives and ways of knowing incorporated into curriculum.

"At the college it's part of our participation, and I would say even duty, to Canada and to Canadians that are attending our school to ensure that we are participating in that truth before we have reconciliation."

Landry said the events are also a way to let Indigenous students know they have community and safe spaces at the college. For many, going away to college is the first time they're away from family for extended periods, she said. 

"The large institutions like the college and university and secondary institutions can be scary and intimidating," said Landry.

To combat that, the college has an Indigenous student centre called Apiwin, which means "a place to sit" in Anishinaabemowin. 

"We are community and we have a lot of commonalities, so it really creates that safe space for our Indigenous students coming in from the region," she said.