Celebrating National Indigenous History Month Through Healthcare Policy at SLC

During the first week of June, in honor of National Indigenous History Month in Canada, Dr. Hasan Kettaneh collaborated with Mary Ann Lyons, Indigenous Student Advisor, to bring a unique educational experience to his Healthcare Policy classes at St. Lawrence College.

The classes were conducted in the Indigenous Centre at SLC, providing students with a rich learning environment focused on Indigenous Healthcare Policies and Indigenous Ways of Knowing from an Indigenous perspective. This immersive experience allowed students to gain valuable insights into the holistic approach and traditional practices that are integral to Indigenous healthcare.

In addition to classroom learning, students participated in a guided tour of the Indigenous garden and the Tipi, where they learned about the significance of these spaces in Indigenous culture. The visit also included a smudging ceremony, a traditional practice to purify oneself, which provided students with a deeper understanding of the cultural and spiritual aspects of Indigenous life.

This initiative not only enriched the students' academic knowledge but also fostered a greater appreciation and respect for Indigenous cultures and traditions. It was a meaningful step towards inclusive education and understanding, reflecting SLC's commitment to promoting EDII and cultural awareness