Students for Truth and Reconciliation - UWO Law

Tuesday may be chilly, but everyone's invited to join us from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. where we will be Honouring the Land with Atlohsa Family Healing Services! 🧡

If you haven't let us know you're coming, please do so at atlohsa.com/reconciliACTION

📅 Scheduled Events for the Day:

10 a.m. - Opening with Warrior Womyn
10:15 a.m. - Relationship to Land and Water Teachings with Wahsayzee Deleary
11 a.m. - Water Walk with Sayzee
12 p.m. - Lunch (bring your reusable containers/dishes!)
1 p.m. - Seed Songs and Dances with Yehawi Ninham
2 p.m. - Climate Change Cafe with Sara Mai Chitty: Multigenerational and Intergenerational Experiences of Climate Change
3 p.m. - Wrap-Up/Circle Discussion

🌱 Ongoing Activities All Day:

Scavenger Hunt; Seed Bombs; Pollinator Planting; House Plant Planting; Seed Giveaway; Button Making; Garbage Cleanup; Interactive Activities

🍽 Bring your reusable water bottles, cutlery and bowls for lunch!

Please register to let us know you're coming at atlohsa.com/reconciliACTION

In honour of Women's History Month, our next webinar will focus on Sacred Women.

Join us on March 22nd as we explore the significance of women in Indigenous cultures.

The session will be streamed live on our Facebook and YouTube channels.

Anishinaabemdaa! Let's Speak Anishinaabemowin!
Join our Elder-in-Residence Betsy Waawaaskone Kechego for an informal Anishinaabemowin language nest gathering this Wednesday, March 13 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. in the Wampum Learning Lodge's Smudge Lounge.

No prior language learning is needed. All are welcome!

Join Western Law for the 2024 Coxford Lecture featuring Professor John Borrows, Loveland Chair in Indigenous Law at the University of Toronto. Professor Borrows' lecture will focus on Indigenous Law and the More-than-Human World.

Date: Monday, March 11, 2024
Time: 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm
Location: Josephine Spencer Niblett Law Building (LB), Room 38

Indigenous law partially flows from the land, and it is a vital resource for strengthening the rule of law more generally in Canada. While humans are a proximate and immediate source of Anishinaabe law, there are also broader forces influencing our legal agency. This talk considers how the air, water, first, rocks, plants, insects, fish, birds, animals, and other more-than-human forces are key participants in Anishinaabe law.

This talk will first consider Anishinaabe law’s more-than-human sources by discussing treaties in the early 1760s. Second, it examines how Anishinaabe creation and clan stories place more-than-humans at the heart of Anishinaabe constitutionalism. Third, it discusses how Anishinaabe law can be learned and practiced in ways which build systems and frameworks which could draw us closer to the more-than-human world. A consideration of the relevance of Canadian constitutionalism will conclude Professor Borrows' discussion.

Save the date. Register to join Samantha Doxtator, Kelly Back and Dawn Iehstoseranon:nha on our trail of sisterhood beginning at Woodland Cultural Centre on February 28, 2024. It will be an evening of celestial awakenings, sisterhood connections, good mind and uplifting acknowledgement to the women of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy.

Learn more surrounding the importance of the 2024 Eclipse, Haudenosaunee Astronomy and Rematriation. We will create a community wampum belt honouring our clan mothers and Mother of Nations, Peace Mother, Tsiokonsaseh (Jikonsaseh, Jigonsaseh).

Info: https://peace-mother.com

Join us tomorrow for the first of three sessions in the First Nations Women in Leadership Virtual Speaker Series! Hear from inspiring First Nations women as they share insights, stories, and advice on what it takes to lead.

Register now: https://ow.ly/ks6l50QFNaG

In partnership with Western Law, Atlohsa's Zhaawenjigewag program is offering FREE one-on-one legal consultations, beginning Friday, March 8, 2024, for 18+ Atlohsa participants. These sessions are designed to deepen understanding of the justice system and the support available within our community, providing free summary legal advice for those facing criminal charges.

Interested in joining but not yet a participant? This opportunity allows you to engage with Atlohsa and gain access to specialized legal support.

Consultations are available with drop-in hours from 10am to 2pm and scheduled appointments from 2pm to 4pm, hosted at Atlohsa Family Healing Services, 343 Richmond St, London, ON.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, email Amber at [email protected] or call 519-857-2353.

Today is Louis Riel Day. Louis Riel was a Métis leader and organizer of the Red River and North-West Resistances. Riel was a strong protector of Métis rights, and remained committed to preserving Métis ways of life. Riel was executed in 1885 for defending Métis rights – something considered treasonous by the government at the time.

Today, we recognize Riel was a brave leader who resisted government attempts at oppression. Riel was also central in the formation of the province of Manitoba, and the creation of the Manitoba Act.

Riel once stated: “We must cherish our inheritance. We must preserve our nationality for the youth of our future. The story should be written down to pass on.”

We reflect on these words today, celebrating Métis culture, and commemorating Louis Riel's leadership. We also take time to reflect on lawyers' role in the suppression of Métis rights and ways of life.

There's still time to register for the webinar on Oct. 23. Learn about who is eligible, how to apply, and strategies for overcoming barriers to getting services and supports for First Nations children.
Register here: bit.ly/3PWu3rB

Join us in celebrating Indigenous culture and creativity at Ivey's Indigenous Artisan Market on October 12 at 11 AM!

Explore unique handmade treasures, connect with artisans, and support local talent. All public, staff, faculty, students, and the broader Western community are welcome. 💚

Applications are now open for the Dean Connor Inclusion Scholarship and Internship for Black and Indigenous Students

Deadline to apply: November 17, 2023.

▫️ Summer 2024 Paid Internship with Sun Life. Opportunities available across a wide range of roles and business groups.
▫️ Scholarship worth $5,000.00 CA. This award will be paid out at the end of your internship.
▫️ Dedicated Mentorship. Work with a Sun Life Leader on coaching, networking, and career development.
▫️ Post-Grad Job Search. Possibility for an offer of employment by SUN LIFE upon graduation from your current program.

Questions from students? We are hosting virtual info sessions for students to ask questions and learn more about this opportunity! Here are the details:

When: Tuesday, September 26 from 12 – 1 PM EST

Please register by Monday, September 25 at 3:00 PM EST
Tuesday, November 7 from 12 – 1 PM EST

Please register by Monday, November 6 at 3:00 PM
Where: Zoom – link to be provided to registered attendees

Register here:
▫️ Student Info session (English) - https://flows.beamery.com/sunlifecareers/dcisstudentinfosessions
▫️ Student Info session (French) - https://flows.beamery.com/sunlifecareers/dcisstudentinfosessionsfr

If you have any questions or concerns please contact [email protected]

🎶 Join us for an unforgettable experience at Gawii Wiikaa Ga-Nendimisii (Never Ever Forget Me) Music and Artisan Festival! 🎨
Learn more at https://nevereverforget.me/

📅 Mark your calendars for September 29 & 30, 2023, as Deshkan Ziibiing (Chippewas of the Thames First Nation) partners with Atlohsa Family Healing Services, Music Tourism, and the Western Fair District to present a remarkable Indigenous showcase on the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation.

🌟 Gawii Wiikaa Ga-Nendimisii is a heartfelt tribute to our resilient spirit and a commitment to never forget the painful legacy of the residential school system that threatened our traditional ways of life. It's a day to remember, heal, and celebrate our culture in the spirit of truth and reconciliation.

🏛️ The event will take place at the Western Fair District Agriplex, and features:
🛍️ Indigenous Vendor Market (Free Entry) featuring food, informational, artisanal, non-profit & grassroots vendors
🎶 Live Concert (Tickets available online) featuring Northern Cree, Digging Roots & DJ Shub
📚 Cultural Learnings: Free programs and activities on Sept 30, where you can find out more about Orange Shirt Day, Truth and Reconciliation and other teachings.

🌄 Your support matters! Proceeds from the benefits concert will contribute to preserving the Mount Elgin Indian Industrial School barn, a place where children left their messages on the walls as a testament to their experiences. Help us create a Mount Elgin Museum and Interpretive Centre.

👪 This is an all-ages, drug and alcohol-free event. We invite you to be our guest on September 29 & 30th, as we stand together to remember, heal, and celebrate the enduring Indigenous creativity in music, art, and culture.

🗣️ "Gawii Wiikaa Ga-Nendimisii (Never Ever Forget Me) Music and Artisan Festival is not just a celebration of our resilience, but a testament to the enduring Indigenous creativity in music, art, and culture. Join us on September 30th to learn more about the festival's important cause and never forget that every child matters." - Chief Joe Miskokomon

This year we are introducing daily lunch and learns! Led by Survivors and other subject matter experts, these sessions will feature discussions around the history of the residential school experience, intergenerational impacts, Indigenous rights, taking action towards Reconciliation, and so much more! Register now for daily lunch & learns Sept. 25 - 29: https://buff.ly/44Hazwb

📌Western's Local First Nations Scholarship Program

Western University’s Local First Nations Scholarship Program is awarded to local First Nations students based on their outstanding academic excellence, meaningful and impactful contributions toward First Nations communities. The scholarships are awarded annually to current Western students who are First Nation from the local Territory and enrolled at Western’s main campus at the undergraduate, graduate, or professional levels on a full-time or part-time basis.

Western University offers an array of financial aid options for all Indigenous (First Nations, Métis and Inuit) students, however this particular scholarship program is designated for local First Nations students associated with the London District Chiefs Council (LDCC) whose nations have longstanding relationships with the land and place upon which Western University is geographically located.

If you are from the following Local First Nation communities we highly encourage you to apply:

Aamjiwnaang First Nation
Caldwell First Nation
Chippewas of the Thames First Nation
Kettle and Stoney Point First Nation
Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit Delaware Nation
Munsee Delaware First Nation
Oneida Nation of the Thames
Bkejwanong Territory

‼️Deadline to Apply: September 30th 2023‼️

For more information or to apply please go to https://indigenous.uwo.ca/students/financial/local-first-nations-scholarship-program.html

If you have any questions please contact the Indigenous Financial Aid Coordinator, Donna Noah ([email protected])

Western Law is hosting a virtual Indigenous Applicant Law School Information Session this Monday, September 11th, from 12:30 to 1:30 pm.

Information about the session is below, and can also be found on our Recruitment Events page.

Western Law Indigenous Applicants - Information Session
Monday, September 11, 2023 / 12:30 to 1:30pm EST
Featuring:

- Danielle Lacasse, Assistant Dean (Admissions & Recruitment)
- Professor Jeffery Warnock, Indigenous Law Professor
- Indigenous Law Student Shannon Ray

Virtual Event – Please register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/western-law-indigenous-applicants-information-session-tickets-700807553257?aff=oddtdtcreator

May 5 marks the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit people.

All are welcome to the Wampum Learning Lodge - WesternU at 1137 Western Rd on Friday, May 5 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. for an in-person gathering featuring activities, brunch and a Sacred Fire to offer a to***co tie. Attendees are encouraged to bring their drums, rattles, shakers and songs.

This day, also referred to as Red Dress Day, originated in 2010 as a part of The REDress Project, an ongoing art initiative by Jaime Black, a multidisciplinary artist of mixed Anishinaabe and Finnish decent.

The red dresses function as a visual representation of Indigenous women, girls, transgender and two-spirit people who are either missing or who have been murdered. In the US and Canada, Indigenous women account for a higher percentage of female homicides compared to non-Indigenous women.

Photo by Kylie Bressette

Indigenous Student Centre at Western University

📌Western University's National Indigenous Scholarship Program

‼️DEADLINE EXTENDED‼️ April 20th 2023 at 11:59pm

The National Indigenous Scholarship Program is awarded annually to five incoming Indigenous undergraduate students (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit) studying full-time at Western’s main campus based on their outstanding academic excellence. The National Indigenous Scholarship also recognizes the candidate’s academic achievements, creative and innovative thinking, and previous or intended contributions to Indigenous communities (on and off reserve as well as urban settings).

3 awards at $50,000 each to Indigenous students applying from Canadian high schools for full-time studies at Western's main campus in the Faculty of Arts & Humanities, Engineering, Music, Health Sciences, FIMS, Social Science, Science. ($20,000 for year-one, $10,000 for year’s two to four based on ongoing registration)

2 awards at $50,000 each to Indigenous students applying from a postsecondary institution for full-time studies at Western's main campus in the Faculty of Arts & Humanities, Engineering, Music, Health Sciences, FIMS, Social Science, Science. ($20,000 for year-one, $10,000 for year’s two to four based on ongoing registration)

For more information about eligibility requirements or to apply please go to https://studentservices.uwo.ca/NationalIndigenousScholarship/Students/NSIntroPage.cfm

If you have any questions about this scholarship please contact Donna Noah, Indigenous Financial Aid Coordinator at [email protected]

***Please share widely***

New Indigenous Studies mural honours community voices on Western University campus Two bears climb trees, acting as protectors as animals gather around a sacred fire. Flowing behind it all are the waters of the Deshkan Ziibi. This scene is ...

A teaching from Kanawayhitowin: The second moon of Creation is Bear Moon, when we honour the vision quest that it began in the fall. During this time, we discover how to see beyond reality and to communicate through energy rather than sound.

In “A Short History of the Blockade,” Leanne Betasamosake Simpson uses Michi Saagiig Nishnaabeg stories, storytelling aesthetics, and practices to explore the generative nature of Indigenous blockades through our relative, the beaver. Moving through genres, shifting through time, amikwag stories become a lens for the life-giving possibilities of dams and the world-building possibilities of blockades, deepening our understanding of Indigenous resistance as both a negation and an affirmation.


Please register for the talk by clicking the link: https://westernuniversity.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJcrdeuhrTIjGNC96SdH_cVo9zMS86jkm1of

📌Dr Valio Markkanen Indigenous Award of Excellence

Awarded annually to an Indigenous undergraduate student and an Indigenous graduate student (First Nations – status/non-status, Métis and/or Inuit ancestry) registered on Western’s main campus. The recipients will be selected based on the level of demonstration in the following:

- Achievement of academic excellence
- Previous/active/intended contribution to Indigenous communities (on and/or off-reserve)
- Commitment to Western’s campus community through engagement outside of the classroom.

This award was established with a generous gift from the estate of Dr. Valio Markkanen. Dr. Valio Markkanen was a well-loved medical doctor in both Canada and the USA. He passed away in 2008 in Windsor at the age of 95. His friends and family will always remember his positive, happy, funny and appreciative personality.

For information please go to https://indigenous.uwo.ca/students/financial/dr-valio-markkanen-award.html

Please submit your application to the Indigenous Financial Aid Coordinator, Donna Noah ([email protected])

Join us for diversity month and learn how to do some beading this Tuesday!

❗️❕IT'S HERE!❗️❕

We have the monthly schedule for Diversity Month! As a reminder, attending ANY of our Diversity Month events will enter you into our weekly prize draws AND our monthly prize!

See soon for details (though, I heard there's a giftcard with it...) 🧐

Indigenous students - you are invited to join SAGE, the Indigenous Graduate Student Network, at Biidaaskonenjigewag, an Indigenous research symposium on Wednesday, November 23rd. We will gather to showcase Indigenous brilliance at Western and in the local community. Biidaaskonenjigewag means ‘they come with a light’ in the Anishinaabe language and highlights the diverse gifts that knowledge keepers and scholars contribute to our communities. Join us for the day to celebrate and honour Indigenous artists, language speakers, and researchers.

Keynote speakers include Ozaawaa Giizhigo Ginew (Monty McGahey II), Mshkogaabwid Kwe (Emmaline Beauchamp), and January Rogers, and the featured artists include Laney Beaulieu, Donna Aahaasuwiimiikwan Noah, and Kitaay Bizhikikwe (Amanada Myers) - we hope you can join us!

To Register: https://uwo.eu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bQa357ZDUjFLWBw