At the Mawi’omi Centre of the University of Prince Edward Island, Morgan Varis, a beadwork instructor, assists participants in creating small orange shirt pins, guiding them meticulously through each stitch.
Varis emphasized the importance of patience in the creative process, stating that it allows individuals to slow down mentally and physically, steering clear of negative thoughts and fostering a positive mindset during the crafting experience. As a Cree and Acadian descent, Varis also serves as a sessional instructor within UPEI’s faculty of Indigenous knowledge, education, research, and applied studies.
During September, Varis conducted drop-in workshops at the Mawi’omi Centre, where Indigenous students, staff, and community members congregated to bead and fabricate pins for wearing on September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. She expressed that beadwork serves as a significant cultural practice for her, emphasizing the importance of sharing her craft for the potential nurturing and healing benefits it offers to others.
This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s release of its final report and 94 calls to action. Reconciliation efforts on Prince Edward Island manifest in various forms, ranging from the transmission of intergenerational knowledge like beadwork and culinary skills to the creation of Indigenous-centric spaces on campus.
Beadwork holds a dual significance for Varis, representing both a cultural tradition and a personal journey. Having learned the craft a decade ago, she shared how it deepened her connection to her culture and ancestors from Peguis First Nation in Manitoba. Varis underscored the symbolism of beadwork, reflecting the notion that knowledge transcends verbal and written forms, emphasizing the importance of communal creation.
Jolene Rolle, the coordinator of the Mawi’omi Centre, emphasized the importance of cultural workshops in aiding Indigenous students in reconnecting with their heritage, providing opportunities to learn traditional practices like Mi’kmaw basket weaving and beadwork to ensure the continuity of knowledge transfer.
In an effort to foster stronger connections and understanding, Shannon Snow, the interim manager of UPEI’s experiential education department, highlighted the significance of engaging with Indigenous perspectives. Varis noted the university’s advancements over the past decade, from supporting Indigenous students and faculty to introducing Indigenous teachings of Turtle Island as a mandatory course in 2022, aiming to align all Islanders towards a shared understanding.
Cree chef Ray Bear showcases cultural expression through his culinary creations, incorporating locally sourced ingredients harvested by Abegweit First Nation community members into his dishes. Bear’s approach focuses on harmonizing traditional knowledge with modern culinary techniques, guided by the Mi’kmaw principle of “two-eyed seeing,” which blends Indigenous and Western methodologies.
Bear shared his experience of deepening his culinary knowledge through interactions with elders across different Indigenous communities, embodying a spirit of sharing and learning. As the director of culinary for Elephant Thoughts, Bear now imparts his expertise to future generations, regardless of Indigenous or non-Indigenous backgrounds.
At UPEI, reconciliation efforts extend to fostering spaces where Indigenous students can convene and support one another. Kallie Drummond, a Métis student and co-president of UPEI’s Indigenous Student Society, acknowledged progress in creating a supportive environment for Indigenous students but emphasized the need for enhanced engagement. The society plans diverse events to raise awareness and promote acceptance, aiming to provide secure spaces for Indigenous students to practice their culture and identity comfortably.