local university is offering a unique opportunity to understand and connect with Indigenous communities through the Gabegendaadowin corporate training program at Algoma University in Brampton.
Gabegendaadowin, translating to Mutual Respect, Thoughtfulness, Care, Consideration, and Awareness for others, bridges the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. The goal is to address biases collaboratively and wholesomely.
Program Overview
Gabegendaadowin is designed for staff and community organizations that interact with, employ, or serve Indigenous peoples, and for anyone embarking on the journey toward Truth and Reconciliation. The program includes:
- Take-away manuals and resources
- In-person or virtual Shingwauk Hall Indian Residential School Truth Walks
- Provided lunch
Originally branded as “Shifting Indigenous Frontline Tactics (SHIFT)” in 2018, the program was a partnership between Algoma University and Sault Ste. Marie Police Services to address the lack of awareness and understanding towards Indigenous cultures and challenges, such as racism and discrimination. It has since expanded to Algoma University’s Brampton campus.
“For us to understand the employees that we have working in our environment, and some of the different backgrounds and experiences that they’ve faced, it’s great to know the truths of what they went through,” said Chad Leask, Cold Mill Operations Superintendent at Algoma Steel.
Immersive Learning Experience
Gabegendaadowin is immersive and interactive, helping participants understand the experiences of Indigenous peoples. The program aims to help participants learn strategies to identify and eliminate cultural biases in their professional and personal lives.
The curriculum includes:
- Culture and Ceremonies: Introduction to Anishinaabe culture with an opening ceremony.
- Treaty Relationships: History of treaties in Canada and Indigenous history timelines.
- Indian Act and Indian Policy: Impacts on the colonization of Canada and dismantling First Nation well-being.
- Intergenerational Trauma and Resilience: Focus on health and wellness determinants, touching on intergenerational trauma and resilience.
- Truth and Reconciliation (TRC) Calls to Action: Highlights the Calls to Action and their purpose in Canada’s reconciliation process.
- My Personal Reconciliation Plan: Personal reflection and discussion on dismantling systemic racism and becoming better allies.
Participants complete surveys before and after the program to assess its impact.
Positive Impact
Participants have reported positive impacts from the program. Chad Leask noted the program helped him understand the hardships faced by Indigenous employees at Algoma Steel. Nadia Nadeau, a business partner at the company, shared the profound emotional impact the program had on her.
“It’s so important to understand other people’s experiences and understand what the people you’re working with might be experiencing or going through,” said Nadeau.
Following its success at the Sault Ste. Marie campus, the program is now available at the Brampton campus to foster better relationships in Brampton, the GTA, and beyond.
A Commitment to Cross-Cultural Learning
Algoma University’s special mission is to cultivate cross-cultural learning between Indigenous and other communities, in keeping with the history of the land provided by Chief Shingwauk for education and harmony.
Extensive Curriculum
The two-day program provides foundational knowledge of Canada’s historical and present-day relationships with Indigenous peoples, focusing on:
- Culture and Ceremonies
- Treaty Relationships
- Indian Act and Indian Policy
- Intergenerational Trauma and Resilience
- Truth and Reconciliation (TRC) Calls to Action
- Personal Reconciliation Plans
A Leading Educational Institution
Algoma University, with its downtown Brampton campus at 24 Queen St East, offers a unique cross-cultural experience with personalized learning that changes lives. In addition to their work towards truth and reconciliation, the university is known for its excellent computer science program and being the first in Ontario to offer a Business of Esports program. Other programs include Accounting, Finance and Economics, Community Economic & Social Development, and a unique Aviation Management program.
Located in the heart of downtown Brampton, Algoma University is accessible, just minutes away from the Brampton GO station and downtown bus terminal. It is also close to popular attractions such as Garden Square, Rose Theatre, PAMA, Brampton Library’s Four Corners Branch, YMCA, Gage Park, and downtown shops and restaurants.
With campuses in Brampton, Sault Ste. Marie, and Timmins, Algoma University provides a unique, cross-cultural experience with a commitment to fostering mutual understanding and respect.