A stole with a story

When graduates cross the stage at Algonquin College’s convocation, gowns will rustle, the crowd will cheer and diplomas will be awarded—Natasha Hiltz Commandabut for Indigenous students, there’s an additional layer of meaning draped across their shoulders. The Indigenous stole, available for our students to wear during their ceremony is an opportunity to showcase their identity, resilience, and cultural pride.

Designed by Indigenous clothing artist Tammy Beauvais from Kahnawake, the stole weaves tradition into the graduation experience.

The stole’s design carries deep significance. Its red color represents sacredness, while ribbons in the colors of the Medicine Wheel (red, yellow, black and white) acknowledge Indigenous teachings of balance and interconnectedness. Symbols on the stole include the infinity emblem, representing the Métis Nation, and the inuksuk, which pays tribute to Inuit heritage.

“Each symbol holds meaning for different Indigenous groups, making the stole an inclusive representation of our diverse communities,” says Summer Wabasse, Events and Communications Officer, who works at the Mamidosewin Centre, the Indigenous student support centre at Algonquin College. “It tells a story about resilience and tradition.”

Indigenous students who self-identify are offered the stole at convocation, with no pre-registration required. Approximately ten students wear it during each ceremony, although numbers fluctuate each year.

According to Wabasse, many students want to take the stole home as a keepsake—a testament to its importance. “There’s always a moment when graduates hesitate to return it,” she says, “but they understand that it needs to be passed on to future Indigenous students who will also celebrate their accomplishments.”

The stole is just one way Algonquin College incorporates Indigenous traditions into graduation. Every convocation ceremony begins with a reflection from an elder or knowledge keeper who speaks about reconciliation.

Additionally, Indigenous graduates can participate in the Indigenous Graduate Honouring Ceremony in April, held separately from the mainstream convocation, where they can invite as many guests as they wish.

“It’s a space where graduates can fully embrace their identity without constraints,” Wabasse shares. “It means a lot to students and their families to be recognized in a way that honours their culture.”

Algonquin College’s commitment to Indigenous students is evident in its ongoing initiatives, ensuring that graduation is not just a conclusion, but a celebration of heritage, perseverance, and the future.




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