by Dawn Tabobondung, Indigenous Seven Generation Program Coordinator

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Aanii (hello)

Time goes by when you're having fun, and it is hard to believe the 22/23 school year has come to an end. Wishing the best to all the graduates this year. May you embark on your next journey from RLC with ease. For those of you who are returning, enjoy your summer and see you in the fall. I look forward to seeing all your returning smiles and hearing about all the laughs you made during the summer season.

Being my first year here at RLC as the Indigenous Seven Generations Coordinator, I want to take this opportunity to say Ch-Miigwetch to Rosseau Lake College for the opportunity to share my stories and experiences with the students and staff. My journey through this school year has been a great learning experience for me, and I look forward to being back in September with everyone.

As we continue to grow and elevate the Seven Generations Program, I am happy to see the Creator’s Game, Lacrosse, played on the sports fields and look forward to seeing the growth in students this fall learning the game of Lacrosse. It is a game that will not only build community spirit but will also help the students grow in many ways. I would like to express my gratitude once again to the Strong Roots Charitable Foundation and the Haudenosaunee Sports & Development Group for their generous donation of equipment that will enhance our student experience here at RLC. It was a natural fit to seek the equipment needed, knowing we had the expertise of two faculty members here on campus, that would allow for developing a program that can come to fruition in the game. Mii-gwetch to all who played a part for a successful day to welcome and greet our Donors who have helped elevate the Seven Generations Program with bringing Creator’s Game to RLC students.

As I look back on the past year, my best moments were co-teaching with Ms. Rand who is an exceptional teacher and I am very honored to have taught beside her. I admit I was very nervous when I found out that I would be co-teaching the Indigenous Studies class. As the school year progressed and May Term was getting closer, I wasn’t sure of myself. As many lessons were put in front of me to learn from, and signs from the natural world, along with some individuals who had a significant part in my journey here, it became evident that I am where I am supposed to be as an Experiential Teacher.

I would like to share some of the students' gratitude, and was very touched by their words and gifts they presented to me:

“I would like to convey my deepest appreciation for the remarkable profound learning journey that you provided for me over the course of the class. Moreover, by being vulnerable and a gifted storyteller you helped me truly understand the beautiful history of the Indigenous people of Canada.”

“As the school year comes to the end, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude and heartfelt emotions. No matter on courses, trip or sharing, you always give me really mild support. Your sharing and teaching will always affect me on my growth. Thank you so much.”

“Thank you Ms. T for teaching me your culture and exposing me to the importance of nature and how beautiful it is. I made this painting simply because I believe it captures all you have taught me and the importance of giving back to nature.”

Wishing all the students and their families a happy and safe summer, remember to laugh lots as it is the best medicine of all.