Lakehead University Launches Two-Eyed Seeing Walk to Highlight 9,000 Years of History

Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, Ontario, has introduced a new educational initiative aimed at connecting individuals with the land’s rich cultural and historical significance. The **Etuaptmumk bimoseng**, or **Two-Eyed Seeing Walk**, is a guided experience that merges Indigenous and Western knowledge systems, inviting participants to explore the campus and learn about a history spanning over **9,000 years**.

Led by **Joe Duncan**, Indigenous content curriculum specialist, and **Rachel Portinga**, acting sustainability coordinator, this **90-minute** walk begins at Lake Tamblyn, follows the McIntyre River, and concludes at the campus sweat lodge. So far, more than **60 participants**, including faculty, staff, and students, have engaged in this immersive experience.

Duncan emphasizes that the walk is a practical application of Lakehead’s land acknowledgment. “We are sharing about the deep cultural and historical significance of this land, including the presence and activities of Indigenous peoples dating back over **9,000 years**,” he stated. Participants gain insight into how Indigenous peoples thrived in the area and the impacts of colonization on their heritage.

Exploring Historical Connections

During the walk, attendees visit several of the **14 archaeological sites** located on the university’s land, which include quarry sites for Jasper taconite and areas rich in copper. Participants have the opportunity to examine artifacts such as **Jasper taconite arrowheads**, copper nuggets, antler tools, and a copper knife. This hands-on approach enriches the learning experience, allowing individuals to engage directly with the history of the land.

Duncan describes the importance of the Two-Eyed Seeing perspective, which integrates Indigenous and Western ways of knowing. “When you’re on the tour, we talk about traditional medicines and how Indigenous people use them, while also discussing the scientific research that supports their benefits,” he explained. For example, participants learn to identify local medicinal plants like **giizhik** (cedar) and understand its detoxification and anti-inflammatory properties.

Portinga highlights the contrast between the flourishing Indigenous presence over millennia and the disruptions caused by colonial policies. “We know all of this history, and how we can continue to engage in reconciliation,” she said. The walk also addresses significant historical events, including the **1849 commissioners’ report** that influenced the **Robinson-Superior Treaty** and the introduction of the **Indian Act** in **1873**.

Future Developments and Community Engagement

The initiative builds on work initiated six years ago within the Office of Sustainability. Throughout this period, Duncan, Portinga, and sustainability intern **Carolina Camacho** have incorporated extensive research and archaeological insights into the curriculum. Duncan also consulted with retired anthropology professor **Scott Hamilton**, whose expertise helped refine the historical narrative.

Feedback from the initial walks has been overwhelmingly positive, with Duncan noting, “The amount of feedback we’re getting has been remarkable. This is part of decolonization, reconciliation, and education.” Currently, there are **170 students** registered to participate in the upcoming walks scheduled for **March 2024**.

Looking ahead, Camacho noted plans to expand the walk beyond its pilot phase. “We want to enrich it, compile feedback, and establish a fixed ongoing process,” she said. Future efforts will include creating digital and printed resources for participants, enhancing accessibility, and developing a “train-the-trainer” program to empower more Indigenous students to lead future walks.

Duncan encapsulates the essence of the project succinctly: “Not all classrooms have four walls. When we connect to the land and engage sincerely, that’s where true learning happens.” The Two-Eyed Seeing Walk is designed not just as an educational experience but as a step towards fostering understanding and reconciliation within the community.