LARA TAI
REPORTER-EDITOR
On Tuesday February 25, A drum circle was heard with native drummers proudly singing songs from their culture commenced at the Grand Opening for the New Indigenous Student Centre at Casa Loma campus. The main goal is to help students from every Indigenous background access services to support their educational life at George Brown College.The center was created for Indigenous students to have a place to congregate for indigenous education as well as other
services.
Indigenous Initiative Co-ordinator Lori Budge defines the centre as a home away from home. She explains the symbolic meaning and connection of the colors that comprise the wheel to goals of the centre. “I am excited for indigenous students to feel like they have a home here. We want to give them a sense of belonging. We have to think of it as a house to give support just like the medicine wheel. Yellow is spiritual which is creating community, Red is emotional as in counselling, Black is physical as involvement in activities and White is mental as seen as academic support.” She highlights that, ”food, comfort, love and support caring faculty and support staff in a space that is a safe place.”
Indigenous Counsellor of the centre Bob Crawford was the keynote speaker who gave the address at the event which included regards from GBC alumni and faculty members including Sage Paul. She is responsible for creating Toronto based indigenous fashion organization as well as other artistic endeavors as part of telling the visual narrative of the Indigenous people while developing community through the arts.
The event gave attendees a taste of the culture including dance performers, a drum circle and traditional Inuit singing. There was a key emphasis on giving respect to ancestors by setting aside a spare plate of food to give respect. When students were asked about their experience of the new center they were excited.
“I find when indigenous students come to the city they are lost and they need this center to feel the community “ said Accounting student, Dorothy Chong.
“I think it’s amazing we have a place like this to come to because we need a lot more indigenous people in school. I am able to see more of my [peers] in school”
said Community Worker student, Maria Bos.
There are also plans to have movie screenings, recreation activities, and support with bursary and assistance applications in the community center.
As listed on their website Indigenous Education & Services include:
counselling (academic, personal, career and traditional with our Knowledge & Wisdom Keeper)
cultural workshops and teachings
community events, including our annual Pow Wow
assistance with applying for bursaries, scholarships and awards
resource materials (books, handouts and pamphlets on Indigenous teachings)
access to job postings and employment opportunities
The New Indigenous student study centre is located at Casa Loma campus at 160 Kendal Ave Room 434C. The Staff and faculty are passionate about creating a cultural home for students.
