Education in the Longhouse

Members of McGill's leadership including the Faculty of Education’s Associate Dean of Academics, Dr. Sheryl Smith-Gilman, were hosted by the Mohawk community of Kahnawà:ke on November 22, 2023 for a day of learning and collaboration.

“What a fantastic experience it was to be part of the day of learning at the longhouse,” Dr. Smith-Gilman reported. Apart from her role as Associate Dean, Dr. Smith-Gilman’s academic career has largely involved Early Childhood Education and Indigenous Education.

Bethany Douglas, from the Kahnawà:ke Education Centre (KEC), highlighted the longstanding partnership of the Office of First Nations and Inuit Education (OFNIE) that has KEC and McGill Faculty of Education co-creating In-Community teacher education programs alongside other Indigenous educational authorities throughout Quebec. This impactful partnership has been one steeped in relationships, showcasing a shared commitment to goals led by its Indigenous partners’ objectives. Douglas proudly presented OFNIE’s efforts for Kahanwake’s community-based teacher education programs and professional development; a journey that has grown and spanned many years.

“It was truly heartwarming for me to represent our Faculty and to observe Bethany impart the collective work that occurs in the Kahnawake community as a result of OFNIE,” Dr. Smith-Gilman commented further. “Our partnership with the Kahnawake Educational Center remains an ongoing journey alongside our valued Indigenous partners.”

A general account of the day’s activities can be found in The McGill Reporter article, “A day of learning in the Longhouse”.