Indigenous Education and Cultural Services to host Visiting Elder – October 1 to 5
Indigenous Education and Cultural Services will welcome to the UOIT-Baagwating Indigenous Student Centre (UBISC) as part of the university’s Visiting Elder program Monday, October 1 through Friday, October 5.
Cat Criger is an Indigenous Elder, Traditional Teacher and Mentor. He is from the Cayuga (Guyohkohnyoh), Turtle Clan of the Six Nations Haudenosaunee or People of the Longhouse. He has worked as a Traditional Teacher and Healer for more than 20 years in the Indigenous and multi-cultural community in Canada, the U.S., England, Germany, Poland and Wales. He was taught in the old way, working for many years with the guidance of an Aniishnawbe Elder and other First Nations Elders, and was taught to do traditional ceremonies, teachings, circles and one-on-one work, and to help all people 'walk in a good way' through life. He also recently received the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal for his work in the community speaking about diversity, equity, respect for women, anti-racism and anti-oppression. He is presently an Elder with the University of Toronto.
During his visit, he will be available for classroom visits at both the north and downtown Oshawa locations, as well as one-on-one appointments with students, faculty and staff. He will also lead a lunch-and-learn session at UBISC on Monday, October 1 from noon to 1 p.m.
If you would like to have him visit one of your classrooms,* please fill out the request form and email it to Jill Thompson, Indigenous Cultural Advisor. Visits are scheduled on a first-come, first-served basis.
*Note: Elder Crigen will not be available after 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 2.
