Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie has received more funding to build the Makwa Waakaa’igan Indigenous Centre of Excellence to advance reconciliation.

The Ontario government recently invested $2 million into the cultural centre through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC). Canada provided $5 million through the Canada Cultural Spaces Fund .

Algoma University will use the funding to build a three-floor Indigenous education facility with classrooms, cultural areas, research spaces, an archive and library, as well as outdoor ceremonial grounds and gardens. Additionally, it will house a new Mental Health and Addictions Research and Training Institute, established in partnership with the Northern Ontario School of Medicine University.

Moriyama Teshima Architects and Smoke Architecture have designed the building and surrounding area in partnership with the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association, an organization composed of former residential school students and their families. Both the interior and exterior spaces have been thoroughly planned to honour the historic and ceremonial significance for survivors and local Indigenous communities.

Once completed, students and visitors will be able to learn about the history of residential schools in Canada and the work of the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association in preserving the history as told by residential school survivors and their families.

“Makwa Waakaa’igan will be the first of its kind in the world – a Centre of Excellence focused on truth-telling, relationship building, respect, and healing,” said Joel Syrette, Director, Makwa Waakaa’igan. “The generous funding provided by the NOHFC is the final step in the realization of Makwa Waakaa’igan, which will help Algoma University deliver this Indigenous-led project focused on decolonization.”

Feature photo from Moriyama Teshima Architects