UPEI marked National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with TRC Mawi’omi on October 3

UPEI held a well-attended TRC Mawi’omi in the Quadrangle between Kelley Memorial Building and the W.A. Murphy Student Centre, from 10:00 am–2:00 pm, on Friday, October 3.

The TRC Mawi’omi—the word for “gathering” in the Mi’kmaw language—was held to mark the 10th anniversary of the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Final Reports along with 94 Calls to Action that guide Canada’s path toward reconciliation. 

The event featured Indigenous dancers, songs, and drumming as well as food, artwork, crafts, and a candy dance for students who attended from Parkdale Elementary School. The host drum was Lone Cry, the head male dancer Logen MacLean, and the head female dancer Mary Beth Lewis. Robert Panchuk led the Grand Entry carrying his eagle staff, followed by the head dancers, flag bearers, Elders, guest speakers, and other dancers. The emcee was Tim Sock, Abegweit First Nation.

Speakers included Chief Tabitha Bernard, Lennox Island First Nation; Chief Wendell Labobe, Regional Chief for Prince Edward Island; Bradley Cooper, Political Advisor, Native Council of PEI, representing President and Chief Lisa Cooper; and Dr. Wendy Rodgers, President and Vice-Chancellor of UPEI.

In her remarks, President Rodgers reflected on the University’s journey to Indigeneity.

“Here at UPEI, we are working toward better engagement with Indigenous leaders and communities across the Island,” she said. “We are also working at implementing our Indigenous Strategic Plan that is geared toward elevating and making more visible Indigenous history and culture, community engagement, and student and staff supports. We intend these to be lasting changes, and an emerging new reality, part of our day-to-day, and not an add-on or afterthought.”

She also stressed the importance of increasing awareness, fostering community relationships, and ensuring that the narratives of Indigenous peoples are honoured and understood.

“Today, let’s reflect on the truth, our role in perpetuating inequities and harms, our role in reconciling and correcting inequities and harms, and what meaningful reconciliation should look like at UPEI.”

Photo: Chief Tabitha Bernard, Lennox Island First Nation; Chief Wendell Labobe, Regional Chief for Prince Edward Island; and Dr. Wendy Rodgers, President and Vice-Chancellor of UPEI