“Only by understanding our past can we hope to create a brighter future.”  
- Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion

November is recognized annually as Indigenous Education Month and Humber College is committed to recognizing and celebrating Indigenous cultures, histories, and knowledges in its academic programming, events, professional development, and other initiatives. Indigenous people have shaped Canada, and this month is a time for all Canadians to reflect on the histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples.  

Here are some activities happening at Humber for Indigenous Education Month:

• At Fall Convocation on November 3, beaded medallions will be gifted to Indigenous graduates.
• Treaties Recognition Week runs from November 6 to 12 and honours the importance of treaties and helps Canadians understand the significance of treaty rights, treaty relationships and their relevance today. The library will share a reading list of books, videos and websites related to treaty rights, as well as launch artwork at the North Library created on four pillars by 2-Spirit Ojibway artist Patrick Hunter.
• Indigenous Veterans Day is November 8 and Jason Seright, dean of Indigenous Education and Engagement, will provide remarks regarding Indigenous Veterans Day during the Remembrance Day ceremony this November 11.
• The annual Indigenous Knowledges Gathering will take place from November 16 to 18.
  • The first virtual session will include a panel of Humber students, alumni, and faculty there to discuss how to effectively promote Indigenous learner success in classroom, learning, support, and service environments. 
  • On day two in a virtual session, Dr. Michael Yellowbird will share his neuroscience research that examined how mindfulness approaches and traditional Indigenous contemplative practices can train the mind and positively change the structure and function of the brain. 
  • The third session will be held at the Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation and focuses on the journey of three professional Indigenous athletes who have achieved milestones in their careers. This session will also be livestreamed to the Humber College YouTube channel. There will also be IE&E community consultation sessions and a mini-hand drum workshop.
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• The Men’s and Women’s Night Launch: IEE Indigenous Student Programming is a hybrid event that will be held November 24. The event is open to all current Indigenous students, alumni and community members. Groups will participate in a Kokom scrunchie session and chat with guest speakers Justine Holness and Chelsea Pettit.