Nestled within the Centre for Collaborative Education is an inclusive space dedicated to supporting Indigenous students at Durham College (DC).
First opened in 2011, the First Peoples Indigenous Centre (FPIC) was given the Anishinaabemowin name Suswaaning Endaajig, “a nest away from home,” by Elder and Traditional Knowledge Keeper Gerard Sagassige. Since then, its mission has centred on reconciliation, cultural awareness, and creating opportunities for Indigenous students to succeed while staying connected to their heritage.
It also plays a crucial role in raising awareness of Indigenous cultures and histories among DC students, faculty members and employees, bridging the gap between communities and promoting healing and inclusivity.
“FPIC is a resource for anyone interested in learning about Indigenous cultures, histories, and ways of knowing. We offer a range of programs and events that promote cultural understanding and reconciliation, and we encourage everyone to get involved,” explained Dr. Kayla Murphy, Director of Indigenous Initiatives and a member of Walpole Island First Nation. “We provide cultural resources, academic support, and a sense of community. FPIC is a place where students can come together to learn, grow, and build mutual respect.”
When FPIC’s doors are open between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., all are welcome to stop in for a visit. Whether exploring their Indigenous identities or finding a quiet spot to study, it’s a great place to escape from the hustle and bustle of campus life. The coffee is always on and Sherry Miller, Indigenous Student Success Coordinator and a member of Wasauksing First Nation, is always ready to greet visitors with a smile.
“We’re a strong support system for Indigenous students. We offer a sense of home and a strong sense of community,” said Miller, who is passionate about providing a warm and safe environment for those who need it.
“I know there are certain places where Indigenous youth don’t feel safe or they don’t feel welcome. When they come in here, there’s no judgment. Having a space dedicated to them where they can feel safe is important.”
One such space within FPIC is the Elder’s Room. It’s a place for quiet reflection as well as smudging, a sacred ceremony in which traditional medicines like sage, cedar and sweetgrass are burned to purify body, mind, heart and Spirit.
For Kiana Cress, Indigenous Communities Outreach Coordinator and a member of Garden River First Nation, joining the FPIC team feels like a natural extension of the time she spent in similar facilities during her own post-secondary journey. Much of it was spent researching the influence of the education system on Indigenous identities, cultures and languages, making her ideally suited for the task of building new relationships and communities at DC.
“Working directly with Indigenous people is very fulfilling professionally, but also personally,” she said. “Places like FPIC show that Indigenous folks are still here. We’re learners and we’re academics.”
With its commitment to building relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities at DC, FPIC is supporting the cause of reconciliation. Students and employees can do the same by educating themselves on the resiliency of Indigenous people, their histories and current issues, and by building respectful and reciprocal relationships with their communities.
“My experience at FPIC and DC has been incredibly fulfilling,” said Dr. Murphy. “Whether it’s planning cultural celebrations or providing educational workshops, we’re making a real difference.”
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