Creating a Sense of Belonging in the Academy: An Example of a Métis-Centred Space

Authors

  • Lucy Delgado
  • Laura Forsythe

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15402/esj.v11i1.70878

Keywords:

decolonization, Indigenization, Métis Research, belonging

Abstract

As post-secondary institutions continue the slow move towards indigenization and reconciliation, more Indigenous-centred spaces are created. But how many of those spaces are Nation-specific? In this article, we describe one example of a Nation-specific gathering, the Métis Research Symposium, and the impact that the gathering had on the mostly-Métis audience, including the enhanced sense of belonging and connection that the respondents reported. We advocate for institutions and administrators to shift towards creating more Nation-specific opportunities for students, faculty, and staff at all levels.

Author Biographies

Lucy Delgado

is a Two-Spirit Métis scholar, educator, and community organizer. She is an Assistant Professor in the Faculty of Education at the University of Manitoba, with a research and teaching focus on Métis youth identity, Indigenous education, queer theory, hip-hop pedagogies, and youth cultures. 

Laura Forsythe

is a Métis scholar at the University of Winnipeg in the Faculty of Education. Forsythe’s research focus is Métis-specific contributions to the academy, inclusion efforts, and educational sovereignty. Forsythe’s contributions include five edited collections, the editor of two Indigenous journals, and numerous peer-reviewed publications. 

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Published

2025-01-22

How to Cite

Fowler, L., & Forsythe, L. (2025). Creating a Sense of Belonging in the Academy: An Example of a Métis-Centred Space . Engaged Scholar Journal: Community-Engaged Research, Teaching, and Learning, 11(1), 1–17. https://doi.org/10.15402/esj.v11i1.70878