Workshops focused on: Treaty Education, anti-racism, residential schools, and educator settler-colonial positionalities.
The Faculty of Education hosted an impactful program day for B.Ed. students this winter term. The day featured Indigenous educators and non-Indigenous allies facilitating workshops focused on such topics as: Treaty Education, anti-racism, residential schools, and educator settler-colonial positionalities.
With an emphasis on truth, justice, and the role of education in Reconciliation, these workshops provided students with important and meaningful insights. Facilitators explored Treaties, Indigenous-led education initiatives, and pathways towards transformative educational change. Students walked away with deeper understandings of intergenerational trauma, the significance of land acknowledgments, and their responsibilities as humble and respectful future educators.
A highlight of the day was the morning’s moderated panel discussion with Valley of the Birdtail authors Andrew Stobo Sniderman and Douglas Sanderson, alongside faculty member Dr. Frank Deer, PhD student Amy Carpenter, and B.Ed. student Caleb Rondeau. The discussion was held at University Centre in a packed room with over 400 people in attendance. The book, which was read and discussed in advance by B.Ed. students, faculty and staff members, examines historical and continuing systemic injustices impacting Indigenous communities, while shedding light on the complex legacies of colonialism.
Students returned to the Faculty of Education for the afternoon where they attended more illuminating sessions. “I enjoyed learning about the two historical timelines and how impactful treaties were and are,” shared one student. “This is a useful way to discuss history with students and connect it to lived experiences.”
Another student reflected on a session about Indigenous land-based programming: “I am learning how to truly foster a relationship with the land, the real meaning of land acknowledgments, and how to form a connection with the land. A single story can change your perspective on history. The land encourages us to see ourselves.”
Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs and Partnerships, Dr. Wayne Serebrin, orchestrated the day’s events. “Bringing together such a dynamic group of presenters,” he noted, “reflects the faculty’s strong commitment to preparing future teachers for integrating Indigenous-led ways of knowing, being, and doing into their pedagogies, and in bringing Truth and Reconciliation knowledge and actions into their classrooms.”
It takes human-centered teaching, genuine care for students, and innovative assignments that encourage critical thinking.
Providing opportunities for people who might not otherwise have access to graduate studies.
