Honouring tradition: The sacred meaning of medicine pouches

Medicine pouches have meaning in many Indigenous cultures. The medicine pouches hold sacred objects and traditional medicines. Each one is unique, often filled with items, like precious stones, or cultural objects that hold personal significance. They serve to stay connected to the spiritual world, honour ancestors, and carry blessings. Read more >


Celebrate Indigenous voices

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It’s a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact the evolving Canada.

The best way to gain a deeper understanding of First Nations, Inuit and Métis experiences is through their own voices.

We are pleased to share the second of two videos from Algonquin College employees who share their stories.

Today’s video comes from Eric Johnston, Manager, Mamidosewin Centre.


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—stole but 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. Read more >


Police Foundations graduate and valedictorian Clayton Cameron in action

When Clayton Cameron crosses the stage at the Algonquin College convocation on June 20, 2025. He’ll do more than collect his PoliceClayton Cameron Foundations diploma and speak to his class as its valedictorian; he’ll be the first in his family to graduate, while keeping his family and community in mind as they all deal with the realities of an emergency back home.

Cameron, an Indigenous student from Waba Read more >


SpiritWolf Singers to perform at Algonquin College Convocation

When the SpiritWolf Singers take the stage at Algonquin College’s convocation ceremonies this June, they will bring with them not just theSpirit wolf singers perform at Algonquin College convocation sound of the drum—but generations of history, teachings, and spirit. Led by Randy Kakegamick, a four-time Algonquin College graduate, the SpiritWolf Singers represent a living tradition, rooted deeply in Indigenous culture and community. Read more >


Algonquin College reflects on a decade of reconciliation efforts 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Ottawa, ON – June12, 2025 Building on a longstanding commitment to supporting Indigenous learners, Algonquin College is markingAlgonquin College response to the TRC Commission Calls to Action more than a decade of focused reconciliation efforts inspired by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. From integrating Indigenous knowledge into courses to strengthening relationships with Indigenous communities, the College continues to take meaningful steps toward creating a more inclusive learning environment.

Today, Algonquin College released a report outlining its response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Titled “Minokamì – On Solid Footing,” the report offers a high-level snapshot of the initiatives the College has undertaken over the past decade. Read more >


Celebrating Indigenous voices

June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, an opportunity to learn about the unique cultures, traditions and experiences of FirstDirector of Indigenous Initiatives Anita Tenasco holding a blue jay in Ishkodewan Nations, Inuit and Métis. It’s a time to honour the stories, achievements and resilience of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on this land since time immemorial and whose presence continues to impact the evolving Canada. Read more >


Algonquin College leads DARE6 volunteer day at the Mãdahòkì Farm

With National Indigenous History Month set to begin on June 1, 2025, Algonquin College brought together its DARE6 partners PCLGroup shot from Madahowki Farms DARE6 Volunteer Day on May 28, 2025 Construction and Nokia Canada at Mãdahòkì Farm on Wednesday, May 28 for a day of volunteering and learning.

Over 80 volunteers from PCL Construction and Nokia enjoyed the beautiful weather. They were split into groups and rotated through various projects including raking mulch for a new playground area, cleaning and preparing a trail site, building new benches, tidying the gathering spaces on the farm and painting. Read more >


Learners advocate against gender-based violence at Moose Hide Campaign workshop

On May 15, students joined the Mamidosewin Centre and Project Lighthouse to write letters in support of the Moose Hide Campaign.

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Learners crafting their letters during the workshop in the AC Hub.

 

The Moose Hide Campaign began as a British Columbia-born Indigenous-led grassroots movement to engage men and boys in ending violence towards women and children. It has since grown into a nationwide movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. All ages, genders and backgrounds are invited to take part in Moose Hide Campaign activities. Read more >


Kwey – Symbols

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. Read more >