University of Manitoba celebrates record Indigenous graduation at 36th annual Pow Wow

It was a day of celebration at the University of Manitoba, as over 470 Indigenous students from multiple faculties were honored during the 36th Annual Graduation Pow Wow.

“This is incredible for us — it’s one of the largest graduating classes,” said Angie Bruce, Vice-President (Indigenous) at the University of Manitoba. “We’ve seen an increase in Indigenous enrollment at the University of Manitoba. We now have almost 3,000 First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students and learners across our different faculties. I think it shows that Indigenous excellence is a priority here at the University of Manitoba.”

Master’s degree graduate Dane Monkman and bachelor’s degree graduate Lauren Hallett were given the opportunity to address the crowd. Both told CityNews they were filled with pride to be honored alongside fellow Indigenous graduates.

“One thing I always try to remember is that we walk on the shoulders of our ancestors — those who walked before us,” said Monkman. “We have these opportunities because of the work they did, and it’s our duty to carry that forward and ensure the next generation has these opportunities and more.”

“It’s a sign of Indigenous strength, excellence, and resiliency that we’re all here today — that we’ve made it to the end of this journey,” said Hallett. “Though it was challenging, we’ve accomplished it, and we’re all here with our degrees together. It just makes me so proud.”

It was a full day of celebration and fun, with a pipe ceremony, grand entry, graduate ceremony, community meal, and plenty of dancing, as family and friends packed the gymnasium to cheer on their loved ones.