‘You continue to make your ancestors proud’
This year's Indigenous Graduation Celebration was a testament to not only the students’ determination and accomplishments, but the deep bonds and enduring relationships they’ve forged in their time here at Mac. (Photos by Georgia Kirkos, McMaster University)
“I would like to encourage you to come back.”
“I started here as an undergrad and just never left.”
“We WILL meet again.”
“This is a place you can return to again and again, as I have done.”
One thing was very clear at this year’s Indigenous graduation celebration: The degree may be complete and the school year concluded, but the relationships that began here will endure and grow stronger with time.
From self-professed “lifer” Professor Rick Monture, who opened the event with a thanksgiving address, to Chancellor and twice-grad Santee Smith, to Elder in Residence Kathy Knott, who hugged each grad and reminded them that they’re her family now, Indigenous Grad was a testament to not only the students’ determination and accomplishments, but the deep bonds they’ve forged in their time here — with one another and with support networks through Indigenous Student Services (ISS).
“A lot of love went into this event,” said Indigenous Student Services director Chrissy Doolittle, whose office organized a vibrant and moving ceremony, with the support of the Indigenous Studies department and the Indigenous Health Learning Lodge.
Held in L.R. Wilson Hall, it was a shift from previous years’ celebrations in the Indigenous Circle outdoors on campus, as the event continues to grow, recognizing not only graduating Indigenous students, but any student graduating with a major or minor in Indigenous Studies.
Here are some highlights from the celebration:
Elder in residence Kathy Knott thanked students’ families “for allowing me the honour of being a grandmother to them.”
Every graduating student received not only a stole from Knott, but also a warm, heartfelt hug.
“I have had my life enriched by knowing each of these students,” Knott said.
“My mother used to say: Wherever you go, make it a better place, and each of you has made McMaster a better place.”
“You are at the heart of what we do at ISS,” Indigenous Student Services director Chrissy Doolittle told the students.
“You’ve brought so much life to our spaces and our community. You have and continue to make your ancestors proud.”
Graduation is just the beginning, Chancellor Santee Smith reminded students, who will “continue to learn, and to have that questioning mind” as they move through the world.
The ceremony concluded with a round dance on stage and a thanksgiving address from Professor Rick Monture, who spoke affectionately of his time at McMaster as a student “who never left.”
