Kanien:keha’ka youth experience traditional teachings and science at this summer’s community camp
McGill’s Indigenous Health Professions (IHPP) program hosted the Eagle Spirit Science Futures Camp on August 7-8 at Thompson Island Cultural Camp in Akwesasne. This year marked the camp’s second visit to our community, and it was a delightful success. Eleven excited campers from the Kanien:keha’ka (Mohawk) community took part in this unique experience.
The camp aims to spark interest in health sciences among Indigenous youth and encourage them to pursue post-secondary education. Our connection with traditional culture is vital to health, reinforcing the idea that cultural preservation goes hand in hand with health promotion. By blending science, healthcare, and Indigenous knowledge, the camp gives young participants a chance to explore future health professions while honoring their cultural roots.
Campers, ranging from grades seven to twelve, engaged in hands-on workshops that fused modern science with Indigenous teachings. They also enjoyed outdoor activities to build teamwork, resilience, and cultural understanding in the beautiful setting of Thompson Island.
A highlight of the camp was the distribution of prizes. Four lucky campers received laptops and tablets to help them in their educational journeys. They walked away not just with new knowledge but with tools and inspiration to pursue careers in health and sciences.
The Eagle Spirit Science Futures Camp started in 2005, founded by Kanien:keha’ka athlete Waneek Horn-Miller at McGill’s First Peoples’ House. It showcases a commitment to empowering Indigenous youth, merging cultural values with academic and career pathways. Feedback from campers highlights the camp’s positive impact, establishing it as a crucial initiative for nurturing future Indigenous health leaders.
Many organizations supported the camp’s success, including:
- North County Science and Technology Entry Program (NCSTEP) at SUNY Potsdam – Promoting science and tech education for Indigenous students.
- Thompson Island Cultural Camp – Provided a culturally rich environment for the camp.
- Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Department of Health – Integrated health and wellness initiatives for Indigenous youth.
- Indigenous Sport and Wellness Ontario – Encouraged health through sport and physical activities for youth.
The camp also welcomed various presenters who shared their knowledge, enriching the campers’ experiences:
- Hannah Lazare – Discussed traditional knowledge and its relevance today.
- Louie Francis & Norman Peters – Taught about cultural practices related to health and wellness.
- Sateiokwen Bucktooth & Jasmine Jemison – Led workshops on traditional medicine.
- Annie Cree – Emphasized physical wellness through canoeing exercises.
- DJ Danforth – Shared insights on ceremonial practices.
- Phillip White-Cree, Courtney Potts, Dr. Brittany Jock, Ryan Ransom – Provided guidance on academic and career paths in science.
- Maggie Deforge-Conners – Discussed her work in Occupational Therapy.
- Tyren Boots – Engaged the campers in scientific perspectives on education.
We are grateful for the volunteers who made this camp possible, including Raun Mitchell, KC Herne, and community member Beverly Terrance. Together, we support youth in Akwesasne and across Quebec.
Sarah Konwahahawi Rourke, Ed.D., Kanien’kehá:ka from Akwesasne, is the Director of the Indigenous Health Professions Program and a Faculty Lecturer at McGill University.
Photos courtesy of IHPP
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