The raising of a tipi signaled the beginning of Aboriginal Culture Day on campus.
Students and faculty were invited to help build the tipi, celebrating Indigenous culture on September 22, at CAT Quad.
The day begins a week of learning and reflection at NAIT leading up to National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day on September 30.
The ceremony was overlooked by Elder Francis Whiskeyjack and Derek Thunder, manager of NAIT’s Nîsôhkamâtotân Centre. “People are not going to know who we are, unless we give opportunities like this to showcase who we are,” says Thunder.
With National Day for Truth and Reconciliation upcoming, Thunder was asked if the celebration was different this year. “We’re allowed to celebrate who we are because it tells people that regardless of what happened and the history of Aboriginal people, we are still here,” says Thunder.
Other activities throughout the day included a men’s pipe ceremony, women’s circle, and Pow-Wow dancing.
More events include:
- Sept. 22 – Walking Together: Non-Indigenous Perspectives on Truth and Reconciliation
- Sept. 26 – How to: Cook Stew and Bannock | Hosted by NAITSA
- Sept. 27 – Blanket Exercise
- Sept. 29 – Orange Shirt Day Photo
- Sept. 29 – Nîsôhkamâtotân Centre Open House and Stew and Bannock
- Sept. 29 – Pîkiskwetân session – Residential Schools
More details for these events can be found here.
On September 30, students are encouraged to learn about the history and legacy of residential schools and reflect on the shared journey towards truth and reconciliation. Orange Shirt Day provides the NAIT Community the opportunity to learn, show solidarity, honor residential school survivors, and share perspectives.
