Students at MacEwan now have the opportunity to incorporate truth and reconciliation into their undergraduate degree through a new Indigegogy minor. 

Students will take 18 senior-level credits selected from 19 courses on topics such as introduction to treaty; Indigeneity in Canada; Métis Culture, Heritage and History; residential schools; beaded sexualities; and First Peoples and the arts. 

“Indigegogy is an emerging field – a different way of teaching and learning – that can be woven into all areas of study,” says MacEwan President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Annette Trimbee, who oversaw the development of one of the first mandatory Indigenous course requirements in Canada during her time at the University of Winnipeg. “This offering is not another Western view of Indigenous studies – it is intended to directly align with the path toward reconciliation.” 

Discussions for a minor formally began in 2023 when MacEwan University community members identified the need for more Indigenous-focused educational opportunities for students. 

“We were hearing from students and the community that an Indigenous minor would offer a different perspective and really complement our other programs,” says Dr. Kevin Friesen, interim dean of the Faculty of Arts and Science. “From there, we took a thoughtful and intentional approach to building the minor, making sure it aligned with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action.”

Curriculum for the Indigegogy minor was created collaboratively with participation from the university’s Indigenous Advisory Council, Faculty of Arts and Science, kihêw waciston Indigenous Centre, Indigenous scholars, leaders, community members, students, and Elders and Knowledge Keepers.

“Indigegogy,” a term coined by Dr. Stan Wilson, a Cree Elder and educator, weaves together Indigenous knowledges with literature and scholarship centred on land-based education, and engages Indigenous methodologies and practices to uplift language, traditional teachings and ceremonies. 

“Indigenous people have always practiced different ways of knowing and learning,” says Danielle Lightning, manager of kihêw waciston Indigenous Centre. “This minor offers a unique post-secondary option for kiskinohamakewin (education) to Indigenous and non-indigenous learners, and will impact our communities in a way that extends beyond the walls of our campus.”