By Kerry Lorimer
On Saturday, November 3rd, the Aboriginal Resource Centre at Loyalist College will host the 17th Annual Festival of Native Arts from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the cafeteria of the Kente Building. There is no charge for admission and everyone is welcome.
Charmaine Leonard dances as Caveman Techno performs at the 17th Annual Festival of Native Arts at Loyalist College.
Hundreds of people are expected to attend the Festival, which features live music and entertainment throughout the day. This year, the popular line-up of Native artists includes David Finkle, Armour Hill, Lynn Brant, David Maracle, and the Tyendinaga Singers. In addition, more than 25 vendors will display handmade items such as crafts, carvings, art work and leather items. There will also be a craft table set up where children can create their own Native art.
“The agenda for the festival enables participants to immerse themselves in the sound of a big drum and the aroma of corn soup,” said Coordinator of Aboriginal Services Paul Latchford. “The melody of traditional songs and the art of Native dancing are highlighted, along with traditional foods offered by community vendors who have supported the festival year after year.”
The new Aboriginal Resource Centre opened on November 5, 2010, to help advance the goals of the Aboriginal Education Strategy, with support provided as part of the five-year Open Ontario plan. While the Centre had existed previously in another location on campus, the new location provides resources to more effectively meet student needs. Designed to accommodate 150 students in approximately 1,160 square feet, the airy second-floor Centre boasts comfortable study spaces with computers, printers, and Internet access, as well as a library with Native newsletters and papers.
With several Aboriginal Resource Centre staff members, including a full-time Math tutor, Academic Liaison and Outreach Officer, the Centre offers students easy access to academic and individual counseling. Together, they reach hundreds of students. Their services, as well as the friendship provided by the Centre, motivate and encourage them.
David Finkle performs with his band Caveman Techno during the 17th Annual Festival of Native Arts at Loyalist College.
The most common challenges to pursuing post-secondary education are inadequate financial resources and the initial transition process to College. The Centre addresses potential concerns through pre-admission counseling on funding, admission, transcripts, and program planning. It provides new students with orientation to the College and welcomes them through activities and events. Even before enrolment, many Aboriginal students have had exposure to the Centre through high school visits and events. One of the regular events that the Centre hosts is a Cultural Awareness Workshop every Thursday from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Centre, until November 29.
“To me, cultural awareness means getting closer to my Métis heritage,” said Loyalist student Tegan Mandeville. “The Cultural Awareness Workshop gives insight into the creation teachings of the Mohawk Nation; stories of the Peacemaker; explanation of ceremonies and clans; and traditional foods and medicines. It is wonderfully executed and full of topics to explore outside the classroom. People of all ages and backgrounds come to share knowledge and like-mindedness. I would suggest this workshop to everyone.”
Instructor Ruby Boomhour helps Trinity Liddiard, 8, in the design of her medicine bag at the 17th Annual Festival of Native Arts at Loyalist College.
As a result of targeted support systems, services and special events like the Workshops and Festival of Native Arts, the Centre has noticed an increasing number of self-identifying students enrolling at Loyalist. They have also found that Aboriginal students are more likely to participate and complete their College program now than in the past. Overall, the Centre is helping to prepare students to achieve rewarding jobs by developing the fundamental academic, teamwork and personal management skills necessary to succeed in the changing world of work.
For more information about the Festival, please contact Loyalist College at 613-969-1913.