On Wednesday, October 1, Champlain Saint-Lambert unveiled a new mural created by three students in the Indigenous Student Ambassadors (ISA) group in collaboration with art therapist Megan Kanerahtenha:wi Whyte.

The mural was created during the summer in Kahnawà:ke and installed outside the main entrance to the college where it will have a permanent place on the campus as a symbol of Champlain’s friendship with Indigenous communities.

Students Karonhiakwas Patton, Noah Atenati Kirby and Jordyn McComber worked together to create the mural over the course of three days, creating an image that honoured the four seasons and the act of giving thanks.

The painting symbolizes the concept of the Ohèn:ton Karihwatéhkwen, the opening words of thanks that begin many gatherings.

Art therapist Megan Kanerahtenha:wi Whyte said it was “magical to see it unfold” and that it was a pleasure to work with the students.

“They are the artists and my role was to support the vision and the dream they already had within them,” she said. “They were so proud and they worked so hard.”

It was unveiled following a ceremony held on Sept. 30 to commemorate National Truth and Reconciliation Day.

Don Shewan, constituent college director of Champlain Saint-Lambert, said that the mural is another step forward in the college’s commitment to building relationships with Indigenous communities.

“From now on, the first thing you see when you come to Champlain Saint-Lambert through the main entrance is artwork done by our Indigenous students,” he said.

This unveiling marks not just the completion of the mural, but also a milestone in our ongoing commitment to enhancing Champlain with meaningful Indigenous artwork.