My life has changed drastically in the past year and a half. 

I found that once I started to involve myself more with my Indigenous community here on campus, I began feeling a true sense of purpose in the work I’ve been doing. As an Indigenous person, it is so important to use my voice to highlight the issues and experiences that Indigenous people still go through today. Recently, I have been fortunate enough to attend multiple events where I was able to use my voice to talk about what it means to reconcile. In order for institutions like U of T to be able to truly reconcile, there needs to be truth in regards to how the Canadian government played a part in assimilating us.

As I spend more time at UTSG, I realize the importance of holding the knowledge that has been passed down to me for generations. 

Knowing that I have knowledge and teachings, ones that have been taught through oral traditions, gives me a sense of resilience. There are times when I feel overwhelmed in the city. Sometimes I find myself missing the rez, wishing I was back home in northwestern Ontario. Thinking about my family that has passed on and my ancestors who have come before me gives me the strength to persevere through these overwhelming and uncomfortable feelings I have.

I wanted this piece to reflect that, and I think a lot of other Indigenous students on this campus can relate to this. 

On one hand, we are walking through these institutions that have previously perpetuated a colonialist standard. It’s easy to feel small. However, it’s important that we embrace who we are on this campus and hold onto the knowledge that has been passed down for generations. It’s about being able to balance both your life as a university student, while also still being able to hold onto your knowledge passed down from generations.

This illustration reflects a First Nations student at UTSG. Seven generations of their ancestors are seen depicted in their hair. I was taught to keep my hair, as it is a way to connect us to our ancestors. I also wanted this piece to reference the previous work I’ve done for The Varsity. 

Both of my covers for The Varsity’s volumes 144 and 145 highlight the steps we as Indigenous people are taking to decolonize this university. I am so proud of our community on campus, and the actions that we have taken for our voices to be heard.