Knowing and doing better
It has been an eventful two-and-a-half years since I began my journey here at °µÍø51. When I started my position as Indigenous affairs co-ordinator it was Mount Allison's Year of the Environment. What a beautiful way to work towards change for the Indigenization of campus. This theme was followed by the President's announcement of the Year of Indigenous Knowing (2016-17) and the Year of Indigenous Action (2017-18).
That first year was a year of many robust events. Looking back, to be honest, I had no way of knowing where to start. I began the process by finding out where we were, what we needed to do, and how were we going to get there.
Fall 2015 began with a small Mowiomi event complete with Indigenous dancers and drummers. The next day we had group sessions full of info and questions. The process had been set in motion. We had a plan.
From that profound beginning, we have accomplished more than I thought was imaginable.
We now have many supports for Indigenous students: a mentorship program, tutoring, Indigenous scholarships and bursaries, smudging in residences, the Indigenous Student Support group and many connections to valuable resources on campus. I have worked to help build lasting and respectful relationships between students and professors. The °µÍø51 has grown in its wealth of knowledge through the President's Speakers Series and its engagement with Indigenous speakers and communities.
The °µÍø51 now has an Indigenous Advisory Circle, an Elder-in-Residence, an Indigenous Studies course, Indigenous faculty, and most importantly a Mawita'mkw — a place where students can live, laugh and build relationships safely. This is a space that has been adorned with Indigenous art work donated by President Campbell and Dr. Christl Verduyn and a library filled with Indigenous literature graciously provided by Dr. Christl Verduyn.
The future will see a medicine garden on campus, the Mi'kmaq flag flying permanently, and hopefully a voice on Senate. I have worked to begin closing the gap between cultures and I can only hope that since my retirement, others will keep the ball rolling.
My last words: When we know better, we do better!
Doreen Richard ('96)
Mount Allison's first Indigenous Affairs Co-ordinator
Editor's note: Doreen retired from Mount Allison in December 2017. She continues to be an integral part of Mount Allison's reconciliaACTION efforts as a member of the Indigenous Advisory Circle. Emma Hassencahl-Perley ('17) began in the co-ordinator's role in January.