Did you know that June is Aboriginal (Un)History Month? The “un” in “Aboriginal (Un)History Month” represents the continuing importance and relevance of Aboriginal peoples in Canada and around the world. UBC’s Irving K. Barber Learning Centre is hosting an exhibit in celebration of Aboriginal peoples in Canada.
This year’s exhibits focus on several programs for Aboriginal youth that take place each spring and summer at UBC, which are aimed at providing younger Aboriginal students with a taste of university life.
Featured programs include:
- The goal of the Summer Science Program is to stimulate students’ interest in health and science careers. Students are given information on post-secondary pre-requisites, course planning, and admissions processes. The program offers a holistic educational experience that includes Aboriginal cultural practices based on concepts of the Medicine Wheel. Aboriginal cultural values focusing on emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual well-being are integrated into the curriculum.
- Ch’nook Cousins is a mentorship program for Aboriginal youth from across British Columbia who are interested in pursuing post-secondary business studies. Students are exposed to career development resources and have access to Ch’nook Scholars who serve as their mentors.
- This Science Camp provides an opportunity for Aboriginal youth between the ages of 8-12 to explore the UBC Vancouver campus through fun and interactive programming .
- Each year, six urban Aboriginal youth (15-18 years old) from Vancouver are selected to participate in this summer program. Through an arts-based curriculum, students learn various aspects of working within a museum environment, including giving public tours, completing research projects, and participating in presentations and workshops by MOA staff.
In addition to exploring the wonderful exhibit at Koerner Library, we encourage you to borrow the book Canada’s residential schools : the final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada which is currently on display at the David Lam Library. This book is also available at XWI7XWA Library, along with many other educational resources about Canada’s Aboriginal peoples.