UPEI Faculty of IKERAS hosts third annual traditional knowledge sharing and learning day
The UPEI Faculty of Indigenous Knowledge, Education, Research, and Applied Studies (IKERAS) hosted its third annual Indigenous traditional knowledge sharing and learning day, Mawi-lukutimk, which means “gathering and working together” on August 26.
The event began with greetings and introductions from Indigenous Elders and presenters, fostering a connection with the IKERAS members. The opening ceremony featured the honouring of the Seven Sacred Teachings in Mi’kmaw, led by Doris Googoo, IKERAS Mi’kmaq language instructor and the event’s creator and organizer. Following this, IKERAS Dean Dr. Angelina Weenie delivered the opening remarks.
This year, a certification component was incorporated into the event to recognize the importance of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s efforts in promoting the Mi’kmaw language.
“Each language possesses a unique spirit,” said Googoo. “It is our collective responsibility to preserve and honour the spirit of the Mi’kmaw language and to actively participate in speaking it.”
Participants in the event included UPEI students, faculty, and staff, and Indigenous leaders, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers. Presenters included the following:
Elder Curtis Michael led two morning sessions applying engaging methods developed in Sipekne’katik First Nation to teach Mi’kmaw language mechanics and its connection to nature and tribal wisdom.
UPEI Elder-in-Residence Dr. Judy Clark, Assembly of First Nations Knowledge Keeper, Circle Keeper, and nationally recognized advocate, shared insights about her cultural and spiritual leadership during a presentation after lunch and certificate presentations.
Elder Thirly Levi presented about sweat lodge teachings, drumming, singing, sacred ceremonies, and the Mi’kmaw language, drawing from over 20 years of educational experience across PEI and New Brunswick.
Dr. Angelina Weenie gave an overview of UPEI’s Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies, which emphasizes land-based, traditional learning designed to prepare students to address Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation.
Doris Googoo shared Mi’kmaw Pressbook language resources and detailed the Level One Mi’kmaw Language certification available to Elders and community members.
“The wisdom shared today was deeply meaningful and connected us all,” said Googoo. “Continuing to centre Indigenous ways of knowing is essential to the mission of IKERAS. I felt guided by the ancestors to create this gathering, and building on three years of success, we look forward to making next year’s event even more impactful.”
Weenie, who joined the Faculty of IKERAS in 2023, praised the gathering’s ongoing success, noting how vital this established tradition has become to the faculty’s development.
“Our true educators are rooted in the community, and their voices must remain central to our work,” she said. “We are committed to expanding these annual gatherings so we can deepen our connection to, and learning from, the Indigenous communities we serve.”
