Tag: Indigenous

For Durham College’s (DC) Faculty of Media, Art & Design (MAD), actively embedding Indigenous perspectives and knowledge directly into program curriculum is critical to fostering a learning environment that honours and reflects the voices of Indigenous communities.

“Our goal is to provide students with opportunities to engage with Indigenous perspectives in a meaningful way,” says Barry Waite, Executive Dean, Faculty of MAD, DC. “Whether through podcasting, international collaborations, or coursework, we want to ensure students gain a deep understanding of Indigenous viewpoints and experiences, and how to share these stories responsibly.”

One way is through Enactus DC, where students recently produced a podcast series, Founder’s Drive, aimed at highlighting the stories of young Indigenous entrepreneurs. This project, celebrated at the Enactus Canada Regional Exposition, not only amplifies Indigenous voices but also inspires students by showcasing the potential of social entrepreneurship in Indigenous communities.

Navraj Sandhar, a recent graduate from DC’s Journalism and Creative Writing program, was the project lead for season two of Founder’s Drive, and said it was an eye-opening journey in many ways. “The Indigenous focus of this season intrigued me from the very beginning. I had the privilege of learning directly from community leaders during our trips to Akwesasne territory and the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto,” he said. “Each conversation taught me more about Indigenous ways of thinking and learning, like how entrepreneurship can be used as a tool for preserving traditions, supporting the community, and creating something that lasts for future generations.”

Looking forward to its next Faculty Lead Classroom Abroad (FLCA) trip this fall, Waite reflected on DC’s FLCA trip to Guatemala last October, where students worked alongside Mayan youth to create and share stories about Indigenous rights in Canada and Guatemala. “The trip not only broadened students’ worldviews but also allowed them to witness firsthand the importance of storytelling in Indigenous cultures,” he adds.

Additionally, first-year students in DC’s Broadcasting – Radio and Contemporary Media program take the course Indigenous Perspectives in Contemporary Media, which addresses the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action, particularly around the role of media. This is further complemented by the Journalism – Mass Media program, where students explore impactful storytelling with Indigenous communities through elective courses.

“Indigenous content isn’t just an addition to our programs,” Waite says. “It’s an essential part of preparing students to be culturally aware and socially responsible communicators. It also reflects our commitment to meeting Recommendation 86 from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission that calls on media schools to provide robust education about the experience of Indigenous peoples in Canada.”

These initiatives within DC’s Faculty of MAD contribute to the college’s broader mission to equip students with the tools to engage with reconciliation efforts meaningfully, and as storytellers, ensuring that Indigenous voices are not only heard but also respected and amplified.

Durham College is dedicated to advancing truth and reconciliation by weaving Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into the fabric of our campus. Explore this content collection to learn about the resources, supports and opportunities that are available on campus.

Photo Credit: Founders Drive

Durham College (DC) is committed to the ongoing process of reconciliation and building respectful, reciprocal relationships that contribute to better educational outcomes for all students and a stronger community.

A critical part of that work is through education and creating an inclusive and diverse learning environment that enhances understanding and appreciation of Indigenous histories, cultures, and contributions.

To support our communities’ continued learning, DC offers a free, online, seven-module training course – Indigenous Histories and Reconciliation. These modules, created to support DC’s Indigenization Statement, aim to give an accurate history of Canada’s dealings with Indigenous communities, redefine Canadian identity through truth and reconciliation, and enhance personal and professional development. By building a network of faculty, staff, and students committed to lifelong learning about Indigenous issues, DC is creating a culture of respect, understanding, and equality.

True to Indigenous ways of learning and knowing, the course invites participants to discover their own ways of learning. Its seven modules – Love, Respect, Honesty, Humility, Bravery, Truth and Wisdom – can be taken in any order and provide a framework for post-secondary institutions to adapt to fulfill commitments outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) Calls to Action.

Topics include:

Treaties and Dynamics Between Settlers and Indigenous Peoples: Reflecting on the historical agreements and relationships between Indigenous communities and settlers and the complexities and misinterpretations that have influenced these interactions.
Residential Schools: Examining the impact of residential schools on Indigenous children, families, and communities.
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls: Tackling the urgent issue of violence against Indigenous women and girls, shedding light on the systemic factors contributing to this crisis and the ongoing efforts for justice and healing.
Decolonization: Promoting the value of Indigenous knowledge and approaches, fostering a more equitable society.
Intergenerational Trauma: Exploring how historical trauma affects Indigenous communities today and paths to healing.
Resiliency of Indigenous Communities: Celebrating the strength and resilience of Indigenous peoples, this module highlights stories of survival, resistance, and cultural revitalization.

These modules are available online for everyone. Participants will receive a digital recognition of completion after each module.

Prioritizing Indigenization inside and outside the classroom

Discover the Indigenous Learning Modules at Durham College