Putting it on the Map

(Sault Ste. Marie, ON – March 15, 2012): Monday, March 19, at 7 pm, Algoma University’s Department of Community Development and Social Work and NORDIK Institute invite the public to attend a special lecture on the role that maps and mapmaking may have played in structuring history. “Maps are neither neutral, impartial, nor apolitical drawings of ‘where and what is here’ says Visiting Fullbright Scholar and graphic designer Anne Dutlinger. “What is left out—and who is absent—is as significant as what is included”.

The maps of Northern Ontario, for example, often overlooked, or perhaps deliberately omitted, social and economic activities. Professor Dutlinger is working with some First Nation members to address this. “Through the recovery of Anishinaabe place names in Northern Ontario we will learn to train our eyes to see the erasures and silences on maps. We will try to uncover places and learn their stories in the vast region that was called “Terra Nulla” (“No Man’s Land”) by the 17th century Europeans—now known in English as Upper Canada/Northern Ontario/the Algoma District”.Chief Dean Sayers will provide a historical perspective of Batchewana First Nations Traditional territory discussing the assertions of present day and visions of the future. “The speakers will provide a historical overview as well as a current analysis of why we are confronted with so many contested territorial issues” says Dr. Gayle Broad, Chair of the Department sponsor. “Many communities are facing complex development proposals such as the ‘Ring of Fire’ which have the potential to be very divisive; we need to better understand the roots of these diverse perspectives”.

Professor Dutlinger’s talk is entitled “Maps, Wayfinding, and Identity: Restoring Anishinaabe Place Names On, Along, and Beyond the Upper Great Lakes” while Chief Sayers will address “A look at the Past, Present and Future – the Traditional Territory of Batchewana First Nation”.

The public lecture will be held in the Bio-Sciences Convergence Building, Lecture Theatre BT203.

For further info:
Dr. Gayle Broad, 949-2301 x 4351

About Algoma University
Algoma University is committed to offering an undergraduate education experience unlike any university in Ontario, offering a wide variety of program options. Algoma University also offers accelerated diploma-to-degree programs in Business Administration in Brampton, and two degrees, including a Bachelor of Social Work, in Timmins. As a partner with Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, Algoma U is committed to respecting Anishinaabe knowledge and culture. To learn more about Algoma University, visit www.algomau.ca.

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Media Contact:
Kevin Hemsworth
Divisional Director of External Relations
Algoma University
705.949.2301 ext. 4120
kevin.hemsworth@algomau.ca