In partnership with the Children of Shingwauk Alumni Association (CSAA), Algoma University hosted a powerful and emotional gathering to mark the official turning of the earth for Makwa Waakaa’igan—a transformative National Centre of Cultural Excellence—led by Residential School Survivors and the first of its kind in Ontario.
Located on the site of the former Shingwauk Indian Residential School and led by the CSAA, Makwa Waakaa’igan will serve as a national hub for cross-cultural learning between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. It will further Algoma University’s Special Mission of fostering respectful cross-cultural education, honouring the vision first shared by Chief Shingwauk.
“The name Makwa Waakaa’igan was given to this place through ceremony,” shared Shirley Horn, Elder, Survivor, and Co-Founder of the CSAA. “We understand that our four-legged relative, Makwa, is a medicine carrier and, as such, a healer who holds the sacredness of these medicines. The medicine they carry brings healing to the body, mind, and spirit. In reverence for Makwa’s gifts, their name marks this place’s significance and honours the work yet to be done into the future— a place where people will come to learn the importance of the Seven Grandfather Teachings, how different world views can enhance and strengthen understanding, and how we can work together in harmony in the pursuit of the good life, Mino-bimaadiziwin.”
The Earth Turning gathering brought together Elders, Survivors, Knowledge Keepers, community leaders, local elected officials, and key partners to honour the spiritual, cultural, and historical foundations of this vital project. The act of turning the earth marks a deeply symbolic and significant moment, signalling the beginning of construction and a new chapter of healing and hope.
Once complete, the Centre is expected to bring over 35,000 visitors each year, engage more than 15,000 post-secondary and high school students annually, and generate an estimated $54.3 million in economic impact. As construction begins, Algoma University looks forward to the continued collaboration with community members and partners who have shaped this journey from the beginning.
Makwa Waakaa’igan is being realized through the vision and generous support of the CSAA, Indigenous communities, and funding partners, including the Department of Canadian Heritage (Canada Cultural Spaces Fund), the Ministry of Infrastructure and Housing, Housing and Infrastructure and Communities Canada, the City of Sault Ste. Marie, and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC).
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