Kwey – Symbols

Posted on Tuesday, May 6th, 2025

As part of Algonquin College’s commitment to expanding the traditional Anishinàbe (ah-nish-in-AHH-bay) Algonquin Nation language onheadshot of Anita tenasco campus, we are sharing vocabulary, phrases and information to familiarize learners and employees with the traditional language.

Within the Ishkodewan courtyard are many Indigenous symbols reflective of Anishinàbe culture and traditions. The symbols were created by Ryan Gorrie, a Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinàbek architect, and each symbol has a story.

Symbols appear on the fire pit cover, the drainage rill and the wall outside Nawapon (NAW-wah-PUN). The fire symbols speak to the seven fires prophecy, an Anishinàbe / Algonquin story.

The drainage rill pattern is related to water/ice, snowshoes/canoes and ice break up. The wall mural uses a canoe as inspiration. The symbols include the seven original clans of the Anishinàbe: crane, marten, bird, fish, bear, loon and deer, and the Seven Grandfather teachings: courage, humility, truth, respect, love, honesty and wisdom.

These symbols appear as interior pathways throughout the Ottawa Campus.

For more information visit the Kwey – Indigenous Language Project website.


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