As a class, we all attended Niigaan Sinclair’s keynote speaker presentation. This was our first outing as a class, and it was a very memorable experience. I really enjoyed the way Niigaan structured his discussion. Many stories were incorporated into his talk. By incorporating stories, he was able to compare and reiterate the points he was trying to make about education. I find that when speakers incorporate stories into a lesson or presentation it helps me better understand the point that the speaker is trying to get across. I also appreciated his storytelling because I know it is a traditional practice of Indigenous peoples and culture to tell stories as a way to teach and to learn and to pass down their oral history.
Niigaan mentioned in his presentation that Indigenous communities most often use relationship-building processes in their intellectual institutions. I was reflecting on the importance of relationship building and I think it is one of the most important things as educators to form relationships with our students. Ensuring our students feel safe and welcome will make their learning experience enjoyable and positive. He also explained how the idea of relationship is embedded throughout the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action (TRC). Relationship driven activities inspire students to stay persistent and patient as there will often be a lot of failure, but failure I believe are the best teaching moments. Niigaan told a story about persistence and patience and how as people we can’t give up and must be there for each other. I think these are wise words to live by especially in the classroom. If there we offer support and practice patience with our students, our classroom environment will be more positive and welcoming for all.