Faculty of Education | University of Regina | Autumn 2021
to be teachers . Now because of how successful colonization has been it is more like teaching students how to be Métis and how to be teachers .”
Melanie clarifies that the culture has not disappeared . “ Culture is still there ; it ’ s just not taken up in the same kind of way because of how families have moved away . That ’ s why it is important to be more explicit in terms of naming .”
Dreaming Big . Research on Métis ways of learning , knowing , and being is important ; however , Melanie is concerned about the dearth of Métis researchers and PhD students . When asked to dream about the possibilities if unlimited resources were available ,
Melanie says she would like to see “ fully funded Métis graduate students — students pursuing their PhDs without having to leave their communities or give up their income .” She recognizes that this would be tricky because there is value in doing a residency component ; “ Yet ,” she says , “ I can see where a move away from family and supports is a huge obstacle for potential students .” Another dream of Melanie ’ s is , “ to adequately compensate our elders , old ones , and knowledge and culture keepers who are so pivotal to the research .”
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THE EDUCATION STUDENTS ' SOCIETY HOSTED TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION WEEK EVENTS IN FALL 2021
Photo : Students Karter Lafontaine , Kassia Nameth , Brooklyn Brady . On Oct . 1 . 2021 , The Education Students ’ Society sold children ' s books that explore Indigenous stories and ways of knowing and being . They asked for a minimum donation of $ 5 per book , with all proceeds going to the Eagle Heart Centre and the Circle Project . They sold all of the books and raised $ 205 !
The Education Students ' Society ( ESS ) offered opportunities for students to reflect on Truth and Reconciliation for the week of September 28 to October 1 , 2021 . Offerings included a viewing of the film screening of nîpawistamâsowin : We Will Stand Up followed by a meaningful discussion with elders and mental health supports present to further the conversation and provide assistance ; a PD event " Creating Personal , Purposeful and Meaningful Land Acknowledgments "; and “ Indigenizing our Classroom Library .” www2 . uregina . ca / education / news