Panel

The Centre for Indigenous Relations, Knowledge, & Learning (CIRKL) and Indigenous Student Services (ISS) work in close collaboration to support Indigenous initiatives, academics, access, and learner success.

CIRKL is a growing area, supported by the pillar in the Mohawk College strategic plan to meaningfully advance truth & reconciliation at the College. CIRKL’s path is to lead in aspects including:

• Indigenous Programs and approaches to knowledge
• Indigenous-focused research & data
• Teaching and learning from Indigenous perspectives
• Indigenous Knowledge Learning Outcomes
• Development of cultural competency through professional learning
• Projects to support Indigenous communities
• Governance and policy

We will discuss the leadership role of CIRKL at the college and how we have influenced and brought institutional changes in line with Indigenous ways of knowing and being; that recognizes sovereignty of Indigenous Peoples in a Westernized Institution; and acknowledges the responsibilities we hold to our teachings and communities. ISS will also highlight their approaches to student support.

One project of importance began in 2019 where the department of Indigenous Initiatives developed the Tetewatatyenawa:se | Approach to Indigenous Engagement guide. The guide provided a roadmap for colleagues to follow when engaging with Indigenous content, knowledge, communities, and individuals; this was finalized into policy through CIRKL in Spring 2024.

The policy is grounded in relational approaches to collaboration; prioritization of Indigenous leadership for Indigenous projects; and the necessity of proactive consultation between areas to ensure Indigenous projects and initiatives meet the needs of Indigenous communities. Within the policy is structure to address breaches in a way that aligns with Indigenous practices wherever possible.

The policy is inspired by the Kahswenta | Two Row Wampum belt, which has formed the basis of our roles in relationships with settlers since the 17th century. We carry our teachings, our ways, and our communities in our canoe, and we do not interfere with the path of the settler ship. Through colonization, of course, the ship has interfered with us. This policy is our way of “polishing the belt” – gathering with our settler colleagues on campus and bringing in our responsibilities within our relationship and outlining how we can row together towards our mutual goals with friendship, respect, and friendship.