MAPLE CREEK, SK – Great Plains College marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with a powerful and meaningful event that celebrated two major milestones in its reconciliation journey: the official signing of Colleges and Institutes Canada’s (CICan) Indigenous Education Protocol and the launch of the college’s Indigenous Engagement Action Plan.
Great Plains became the 76th institution in Canada to sign the CICan Indigenous Education Protocol, a framework that outlines seven guiding principles, encouraging post-secondary institutions to prioritize Indigenous education, support Indigenous students and staff, and embed Indigenous knowledge and culture into curriculum and institutional practices.
“This marks a major milestone for Great Plains College,” said president & CEO Brad Mahon. “Signing this protocol is about cementing our commitment to reconciliation and ensuring that those who come after us—those who will one day sit at our leadership table—are charged with the same responsibilities to continue doing better.”
The September 25 event began with a traditional drum performance and remarks from Elders, Knowledge Keepers, local officials, college leadership, and keynote speaker BevAnn Fox. It concluded with the signing of the CICan Indigenous Education Protocol and the unveiling of the college’s Indigenous Engagement Action Plan – an important guide in the college’s ongoing efforts in reconciliation.
The signing ceremony included Brad Mahon, President & CEO, Jeremy Roberts, Board of Directors, Knowledge Keeper Lyndon Linklater, Elder Dale Mosquito, and Elder Sylvia Thorburn.
“The protocol is our promise, and the action plan is our how,” Mahon added. “Words are important, but they require action. This plan is our roadmap for doing the real work of reconciliation.”
Great Plains College would like to acknowledge the guidance and support of Indigenous leaders, Elders and Knowledge Keepers in guiding the college’s Indigenous Engagement Committee and helping shape the Action Plan.
To learn more about CICan’s Indigenous Education protocol, visit collegesinstitutes.ca/what-we-do/our-priorities/accelerating-reconciliation/indigenous-education-protocol/. To view the College’s IEC Action Plan, visit greatplainscollege.ca/about-us/publications.
– 30 –
For more information contact:
Amy Masse, manager of marketing & communications
Phone: (306) 737-6107
Email