VCI students build pikogan and learn indigenous culture from expert builder and knowledge keeper – The Review Newspaper

May 31, 2022

An experience helping build an authentic indigenous wigwam—or pikogan dwelling has been an exercise in understanding and reconciliation for students at Vankleek Hill Collegiate Institute (VCI).

Chuck Commanda, an Algonquin master canoe builder and knowledge keeper from Kitigan Zibi First Nation near Maniwaki built the pikogan with six VCI students. A dedication ceremony was held at VCI on May 30. Another pikogan built by Commanda is on display at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau.

VCI Prinicipal Christie Walker had organized two canoe builds with students at a school where she previously served in Smiths Falls and decided to coordinate a similar project at VCI.

Walker thought it was important for students to have a connection with an indigenous knowledge keeper and have an understanding of the traditions.

Read More: https://thereview.ca/2022/05/31/vci-students-build-pikogan-and-learn-indigenous-culture-from-expert-builder-and-knowledge-keeper/