Higher Knowledge

The Gichi Kendaasiwin (GIH-chih ken-DAH-sih-win) Constellation moves the work of Reconciliation from commitment into action by connecting Indigenous-led work across Lakehead, strengthening pathways to postsecondary education while centring Indigenous knowledge and relationships.

The Constellation brings together Indigenous-led spaces, outreach and access programs, and cultural programs rooted in Indigenous knowledge, relationships, and ways of learning.

Together, these initiatives expand access to postsecondary education, help students feel welcome and connected, and contribute to Lakehead’s ongoing work to Indigenize and decolonize its curricula.

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Key Areas for Support:

The Gathering Place project has advanced significantly through guidance from Elders, architectural planning, and site selection near existing land-based learning spaces. Preliminary designs and construction timelines are in place, but significant resources are now needed to realize this vision.

The Niijii Indigenous Mentorship Program will leverage support to reach more communities while strengthening relationships with existing partners—broadening access for more Indigenous youth to explore and pursue postsecondary education.

Indigenous-led cultural programming can expand through sponsorship of the annual Powwow and investment in honouraria that respect Indigenous Scholars’ and Elders’ roles. This work is foundational to cultural revitalization and to continuing to shape Lakehead into an institution where Indigenous-led teaching and knowledge-sharing are not peripheral, but integral.