Most U of T students don’t realize they have an Elder at their disposal. However, it’s just one of the many services the First Nations House offers. Founded in 1992, the First Nations House (FNH) offers culturally supportive student services and programs—but it’s not just for Aboriginal students.
“We have a wide number of services and events for the wider university community,” said Anita Benedict, FNH’s coordinator. The only requirement to participate is interest. The First Nations House (FNH) contains the Office of Aboriginal Student Services and Programs, and the Native Students’ Association. Located at 563 Spadina, FNH offers a friendly, low-key atmosphere. This week is a special one for the FNH: it is their 16th annual Aboriginal Awareness Week. It promotes “education as a vision quest” through a series of events. Throughout the week, students can enjoy such events as a workshop on traditional herbal medicine, poetry readings, and arts & crafts. Yet even outside of this eventful week, the FNH has much to offer. “We have a resource centre available, we host a number of classes in the aboriginal studies program, and small classes can be held here,” Benedict explained.
Benedict recommended that students seek out the tutors they offer, or join one of their study groups. Students, she says, find the FNH space conducive to seminar groups and discussion. Ron Freeman, who’s working towards an Aboriginal Studies Honours B.A., said, “FNH has been by far the most critical institutional component of my education here at the U of T.”
Their support allowed him to persevere after a traffic accident, Freeman added. The FNH offers many of the features one would except from a program house. They have computers available and offer academic counselling. Yet one feature entirely unique to FNH is the Elder, who provides help with cultural, traditional and spiritual issues. She is often sought out to advise or refer students. She is also a resource for U of T students researching Aboriginal culture. FNH gets many requests for their expertise and they always strive to connect the U of T community with the larger Aboriginal community.
Interested students should contact Jonathan Hamilton-Diabo (416-978-1290). Counselors are available for students from Monday to Friday, 8:45 a.m. to 5 p.m. Students may drop in or call ahead. Benedict emphasized that all students are welcome.
