Our perspectives shape how we see the world, which in turn shapes our beliefs, our understanding and our relationships with others. Booth University College resides in Treaty One territory, the original lands of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation. We live, whether by choice or by history, in community with our Indigenous neighbours and our wellbeing in this community is interconnected and interdependent. Learning to see our world through the eyes of Indigenous peoples is imperative to being able to contribute towards its betterment. At Booth UC, we believe that in providing Education for a Better World we must first understand this world through other perspectives.
Indigenous Perspectives Week, March 7-11, provided just such an opportunity. Although we were once again unable to meet together on campus, we were able to offer a unique and engaging online experience for students, faculty and staff. Keynote speaker, Jennifer Meixner, challenged us on the topic of Decolonizing Criminal Justice and the Role of Indigenous Innovation in Manitoba.
A movie night and discussion, featuring the documentary Rumble: The Indians Who Rocked the World, was well-attended and offered lively conversation on a unique topic. As one attendee said, “Great conversation last night! Thanks, everyone for your input. I learned so much!”
Similarly, our book discussion on 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act by Bob Joseph created an opportunity to dialogue about The Indian Act and its repercussion on generations of Indigenous Peoples.
For those with a culinary curiosity, our Booth Bistro posted some delicious Indigenous-inspired recipes, providing mouth-watering incentives to explore Indigenous culture through the food we eat.
Indigenous researcher, Shawn Wilson, reflects: “It is the act of living [our] beliefs that makes them real”.
As our Booth UC community comes together to understand and learn from our Indigenous community members, we will begin to realize the reconciliation that is our goal. This is an exciting hope for a richer future for us all.
