Cambrian College Reinforces Longstanding Relationship with Anishnaabe Community

The Wabnode Institute flag was officially raised at the Cambrian College’s Barrydowne campus on September 13. The raising of the flag reinforces Cambrian’s longstanding relationship with the Anishnaabe community and highlights the presence and contributions of the Anishnaabe people at Cambrian College.

“The raising of the Wabnode Institute flag is certainly a historical event,” said Cambrian President Sylvia Barnard. “It symbolizes the College’s partnership with the Anishnaabe people at the College and with communities in Ontario and in other provinces. It is a partnership that goes beyond providing opportunities for academic and professional development. It recognizes that education must also promote social and cultural growth and respect the distinct heritage of the individual.”“A flag, for Aboriginal people, is a guide or a representation of their territory,” says Joyce Helmer, Chair of the Wabnode Institute. “Today’s flag-raising ceremony acknowledges the presence of Aboriginal people at Cambrian College, provides them with a visual presence, and instills a sense of belonging.”

The flag is a representation of a painting presented to Cambrian College in 1988 by artist and Cambrian alumnus Wayne Trudeau, entitled “The Harvest of Knowledge.”

Cambrian’s long-standing association with the Anishnaabe community has resulted in many initiatives, including the establishment of the Wabnode Institute, which is the College’s centre for advancement of Aboriginal education; the Cambrian Native Students’ Association; and access to specialized programs, services and facilities that support student success and foster cultural awareness.

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Reference:
Gloria Staskus
Marketing Coordinator
Marketing and Institutional Relations
(705) 566-8101, extension 7760
grstaskus@cambrianc.on.ca