The AC Library offers a wide range of resources to support learning about Métis peoples in Canada. Métis people are one of the three distinct
Indigenous Peoples recognized in Canada, alongside First Nations and Inuit. Métis people have a unique history, culture, traditions, language, and identity that are distinct from both First Nations and Inuit peoples. Continue reading
TRI News
Algonquin College’s Pembroke Campus is proud to partner with the Circle of Turtle Lodge in hosting the first Annual Algonquin Elders
Conference, taking place June 19-21 as part of National Indigenous Peoples Day weekend. The conference will bring together Elders, Knowledge Keepers, community members, allies and learners for a weekend of teachings, connection and cultural learning.
This year’s conference will focus on the Medicine Wheel, exploring its teachings and significance through presentations, workshops, ceremonies and opportunities for dialogue and reflection. Participants will have the opportunity to learn directly from Elders and Knowledge Keepers while building relationships grounded in respect, understanding and community. Continue reading
When Julie Alivaktuk packed up her life in Iqaluit, took a leave of absence from her current federal government job and moved to Ottawa with her two sons to attend Algonquin College, she was looking for a new challenge and a chance to grow. She previously completed the Inuit Studies program in Nunavut and gained experience working in film and television. Those relationships and that experience later made it possible for her to work on season two of the hit series North of North while continuing her studies.
Welcome to the Spring 2026 edition of “Kwey” the Algonquin College’s Indigenous Language Video Series. “Kwey” is an Algonquin greeting that means hello.
Since the Spring of 2024, we have created over 90 videos sharing words, expressions and phrases in the Anishinàbe Algonquin language, the traditional language of this region. Continue reading
The day after Algonquin College launched the Nìgàn initiative, over 75 partners from Nokia Canada and PCL Construction came together at the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation community on June 2, 2026, for a day of volunteering and learning.
This year, in addition to Nìgàn partners, Algonquin College employees were able to attend to participate in activities that included sanding, staining and painting bleachers, raking, tree cutting and clearing and gardening projects throughout the Pow Wow grounds and community.
Knowledge Keepers Paul Nadjiwan and Barry Sarazin spoke with the attendees, shared stories and answered questions.
June 01, 2026
On June 1, as Algonquin College begins its acknowledgement of National Indigenous Peoples Month, Algonquin College President and CEO Claude Brulé launched Nìgàn, a new Indigenous partnership initiative. This program expands the collaborative framework established through the College’s earlier DARE6 program, strengthening relationships between the College, community organizations and business partners through learning, respect and shared responsibility.
Nìgàn, which means “to lead” in Anishinàbemowin, brings select partners into authentic learning relationships with the College, creating opportunities to engage directly with Indigenous leaders, Knowledge Keepers, students and community organizations. DARE6 was introduced in 2020 as a corporate partnership and engagement initiative grounded in Truth and Reconciliation and the meaningful integration of Indigenous Knowledge across campus life. Continue reading
Algonquin College was proud to take part in the recent Nunavut Sivuniksavut (NS) convocation in Ottawa on May 14, celebrating the
accomplishments of 33 graduates from the Inuit Studies and Advanced Inuit Studies certificate programs.
Anita Tenasco, Director of Indigenous Initiatives, represented the College at the ceremony, alongside Tracy Norris, Chair of Academic Access and Indigenous Studies. Continue reading
Centre: Claude Brulé, Algonquin College President and CEO, pictured with Joan Johnston, Anita Tenasco, Director, Indigenous Initiative, and Algonquin College employees and students at the Mamidosewin Centre.
Ottawa, ON (May 20, 2026) – Algonquin College is announcing a $210,000 donation from the Josette Robertson and Joan Johnston Family Foundation to establish the Indigenous Knowledge, Work and Entrepreneurship (IKWE) program. Developed by the College’s Department of Indigenous Initiatives, IKWE will offer culturally grounded leadership, professional development and entrepreneurship opportunities for students who identify as Indigenous women.
The 18th Annual Indigenous Honouring Ceremony was held May 3 at the Canadian Museum of History celebrating Indigenous postsecondary graduates.
Algonquin College has been awarded a Bronze Award of Excellence by Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan), recognizing the
College’s Kwey Indigenous Language Series in advancing Indigenous knowledge, language revitalization, and community focused learning.
The honour was presented during the 2026 CICan Connections Conference in Ottawa, on Thursday, April 23, 2026 where CICan celebrated institutions and initiatives that demonstrate the sector’s essential role in building strong colleges, strong communities, and a strong Canada. Continue reading