McGill’s Indigenous Health Professions (IHPP) program hosted the Eagle Spirit Science Futures Camp, from August 7-8, 2024, at the Thompson Island Cultural Camp in Akwesasne. I was proud to be part of this year’s edition, which took place in my community for the second time and was a resounding success. Eleven enthusiastic young campers from our Kanien:keha'ka (Mohawk) community participated in this transformative experience.
The overall intent of the camp is to increase interest in health sciences and in attending post-secondary education among Indigenous youth. As our traditional culture is a vital part of health, coming as it does from nature and the environment. Cultural preservation is health promotion. With this ethos in mind, the camp seamlessly integrates science, healthcare, and traditional Indigenous knowledge, providing the campers with a unique opportunity to explore future careers in health professions while deepening their connection to their cultural roots.
The campers, made up of students in grades seven through 12, engaged in hands-on workshops that combined modern scientific exploration with Indigenous teachings, creating a well-rounded learning environment. They also participated in outdoor activities that promoted teamwork, resilience, and cultural understanding, all within the serene environment of Thompson Island.
One of the camp’s highlights was the distribution of prizes. Four lucky campers won laptops or tablets to support their educational and professional journeys. The campers left the camp not only with a deeper understanding of science and healthcare but also with the tools and inspiration to pursue these fields in the future.
The Eagle Spirit Science Futures Camp– which was – continues to demonstrate its commitment to empowering Indigenous youth by blending cultural values with academic and career opportunities. The positive feedback from the campers and the impact of the program solidifies the Eagle Spirit Science Futures Camp as a key initiative for nurturing the next generation of Indigenous health leaders.
Nia:wen/Thank you
The Eagle Spirit Science Futures Camp was made possible through the collaboration of several dedicated partners who came together to support Indigenous youth and promote education in science and health professions. The partners included:
- Northern Consortium Science and Technology Entry Program (NCSTEP) at the State University of New York at Potsdam – A partner promoting science and technology education for Indigenous students.
- Thompson Island Cultural Camp – The host site, offering a culturally enriched setting for the camp.
- Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Department of Health – Supporting the integration of health and wellness initiatives for Indigenous youth.
- Indigenous Sport and Wellness Ontario – Promoting health, wellness, and opportunities for Indigenous youth through sport and physical activity.
These partners were instrumental in ensuring the success of the camp, providing the necessary resources, expertise, and cultural context to create an enriching experience for the campers.
The Eagle Spirit Science Futures Camp was enriched by the contributions of an incredible group of presenters who shared their expertise and traditional knowledge with the campers. The presenters were:
- Hannah Lazare – Shared insights on traditional knowledge and its applications in modern settings.
- Louie Francis & Norman Peters – Provided teachings on cultural practices and their connection to health and wellness on the St. Lawrence River including fishing, boating, and netting.
- Sateiokwen Bucktooth & Jasmine Jemison - Led workshops on traditional medicine and Indigenous healing practices.
- Annie Cree leading Iakwasatseh Fitness – Demonstrated the importance of physical wellness in maintaining a healthy lifestyle through canoeing exercises and safety training.
- DJ Danforth – Shared knowledge on ceremonial practices and sweat lodges
- Phillip White-Cree (Clarkson University), Courtney Potts (SUNY Potsdam), Dr. Brittany Jock (McGill), Ryan Ransom (SUNY Potsdam – Provided mentorship and insights into academic and career pathways in the sciences.
- Maggie Deforge-Conners (Dartmouth Alum)- Presented on her work in Occupational Therapy
- Tyren Boots (Spirit North) – Engaged campers with scientific perspectives and opportunities in higher education.
These presenters played a vital role in making the camp a holistic learning experience, bridging the gap between modern health sciences and Indigenous knowledge.
We would also like to thank Raun Mitchell from Seven Dancers, KC Herne from Akwesasne (4th year Medical Student at Ï㽶ÊÓƵ) and community member Beverly Terrance for their willingness to volunteer to chaperone the campers. Thank you to everyone who made this camp possible. We look forward to continuing to build support for the youth in Akwesasne and Indigenous youth across Quebec.
Sarah Konwahahawi Rourke, Ed.D., Kanien’kehá:ka from Akwesasne, is Director of the Indigenous Health Professions Program and Faculty Lecturer in the Department of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ï㽶ÊÓƵ.
