Indigenous History Month: Honouring Identity and Building Community

June is Indigenous History Month—a time to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples across Canada. At Fleming College, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on our responsibility to foster inclusive, supportive spaces for Indigenous students—not just this month, but throughout the year.
Indigenous Student Services at Fleming
Indigenous Student Services (ISS) at Fleming is more than just a support department—it’s a community committed to helping students feel seen, supported, and empowered. ISS provides a culturally safe and welcoming environment for students who identify as First Nations, Métis, and Inuit. Their work goes beyond academic support, offering advocacy, cultural programming, access to traditional medicines and smudging, referrals to internal and external services, and workshops on everything from bursary applications to wellness and community connection.
Creating Spaces Rooted in Culture
Across all Fleming campuses, Indigenous student lounges offer a comfortable place to study, gather, or simply take a break. Each lounge is equipped with computers, printers, couches, TVs, kitchenettes, and crafting supplies like beads and porcupine quills. Traditional medicines and smudging materials are also available, providing students with opportunities for cultural connection and self-care.
In addition to indoor spaces, outdoor cultural areas at Sutherland and Frost campuses offer firepits and (soon) Learning Lodges—welcoming spaces for students, staff, and the broader community to gather and learn together. At Sutherland Campus, the Three Sisters Garden—planted with corn, beans, and squash—serves as a living classroom for land-based learning. A harvest feast is planned for the end of the season to bring people together in celebration and gratitude.
How to Connect and Get Involved
All Indigenous students—whether First Nations (status or non-status), Métis (registered or not), or Inuit—are encouraged to self-identify with ISS, either in person or online. Self-identifying helps the ISS team keep students informed about upcoming programming, events, and opportunities. Lounges are open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and all Indigenous students are welcome to drop in, ask questions, or simply spend time in the space.
Deepening Learning Through the Indigenous Perspectives Designation
Students looking to enhance their academic journey can also pursue the Indigenous Perspectives Designation (IPD). This optional learning pathway offers deeper insight into Indigenous knowledge and perspectives specific to each student’s chosen field of study. To learn more, visit the IPD Fleming page or speak with your program coordinator.
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