The University of Manitoba’s Physical Therapy program held an Indigenous welcoming ceremony for students, faculty, and staff. The ceremony was attended by over 100 first-year and second-year students. It included a pipe ceremony led by Elder Charlotte Nolin and Knowledge Keeper George Muswaggon, a water ceremony led by Ongomiizwin – Education Director Chantal Daniels, a smudge, and an opportunity for students to give a tobacco offering. “I thought the ceremony was great. I really like what the Knowledge Keeper said about how fast-paced this campus can be and it’s always good to take a step back and reflect on our upbringings and what got us here,” said Student Calvin Reimer, who volunteered to assist with the water ceremony. UManitoba Physical Therapy Department Head Dr Mark Garrett stated that the plan is to make the welcoming ceremony a permanent part of student orientation for the program.
