Algonquin College recently hosted Knowledge Keeper and Master Canoe Builder Chuck Commanda for a traditional Birchbark Canoe Build as Commanda and Algonquin College learners constructed a traditional 12-foot Algonquin canoe.
"Hosting Chuck Commanda as he worked and shared his knowledge with our learners was a powerful way to honour Indigenous traditions and foster meaningful connections on campus," said Algonquin College President and CEO Claude Brulé."
This immersive, hands-on experience reflected Algonquin College's commitment to Truth, Reconciliation, and Indigenous (TRI) teaching, and was part of the learning experience of its recently launched two new Indigenous Studies programs.
The canoe build offered learners, employees, and staff a meaningful opportunity to engage directly with traditional Indigenous knowledge and practices.
Chuck Commanda, a respected Algonquin Knowledge Keeper, guided the construction of a birchbark canoe using ancestral techniques passed down through generations.
The project was supported by the Office of Indigenous Initiatives and was open to the entire College community.
Classes from various faculty including Interactive Media Design, Cabinetmaking and Furniture Technician, Museum Studies, Illustration and Concept Art, the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, and Indigenous Studies. visited the build site to observe and learn with Commanda.
A short video of the project is available here for viewing.
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For more information
1385 Woodroffe Avenue
Ottawa Ontario
Canada K2G 1V8
www.algonquincollege.com/
