October 30, 2024
Thunder Bay, ON – Anwebiiwining or “a place where one rests”, a new Indigenous outdoor learning space at Confederation College in Thunder Bay , was unveiled on October 17th, marking a significant step towards supporting the College’s vision of Indigenous education. This Outdoor space aims to encourage land-based learning outside the traditional classroom settings. Developed in close collaboration with the College, Anwebiiwining is a living testament to A49's dedication to creating environments that harmoniously blend the wisdom of Indigenous traditions with contemporary design principles.
The grand opening event was attended by students, faculty, community leaders, and Elders. Elder Sheila DeCorte of Fort William First Nation offered blessings and shared stories of the land. Attendees gathered around the sacred fire pit, designed in collaboration with trades students. Everybody enjoyed sitting around the fire with a hot tea and Bannock.
Pam Burton, co-ordinator of the Onajigawin Indigenous Services program, said the space will help the college decolonize education through traditional teachings and healings that support a more organic way of learning.
The project offers a versatile space designed for storytelling, ceremonies, events, and outdoor classes. Central to this space is a fire pit for gatherings, accompanied by stone seating and areas for traditional practices. A pergola, inspired by Indigenous structures, provides covered seating and workspace, symbolizing strength and cultural heritage. The design includes a secondary fire pit for cooking and an accessible boardwalk that connects different areas of the project, ensuring minimal environmental impact. Additional facilities include storage for equipment and furniture, enhancing the functionality of the outdoor space.
A49's innovative approach to this project highlights our dedication to integrating cultural heritage with modern design principles. By creating spaces that honor Indigenous traditions and promote land-based learning, out team is helping to foster a deeper connection between the College community and the natural world.
Bhavana Bonde, a landscape architect at A49, shared her thoughts on the project: "This project is a unique opportunity to blend traditional Indigenous knowledge with contemporary landscape architecture. We are honored to contribute to a space that will serve as a place for cultural exchange and learning."