August 2024
Marny Point, BEd’92, MET’04, is from the Musqueam Indian Band and is a NITEP Program Coordinator & Instructor from the Vancouver field centre
What inspired you to get involved in Indigenous teacher education?
I encountered a disheartened high school student and realized there needed to be a change in the school system. I found NITEP and enrolled immediately. We need more Indigenous instructors to advance decolonization and promote change in schools today.
How does NITEP contribute to the broader aims of decolonization and reconciliation in education?
NITEP nurtures each student’s personal vision, platform and determination of decolonization, reconciliation, and ways of sharing and teaching for incorporation into their own careers.
How has your involvement with NITEP impacted you personally?
Initially, NITEP allowed me to find my voice and empowered me to heal, convert weakness and stand up and challenge not only the stereotypical compartmentalization of the institution, but society’s box for Indigenous women as a whole. I didn’t have to be radical or aggressive; I just had to nurture the gift within every student I taught – instill in them that they have every right to aspire to reach every goal and dream they had for their lives and even their children’s lives. I still get excited every September, realising we have more teacher candidates who will soon be in the field, making a difference and creating change.
What guidance would you offer educators aiming to cultivate inclusive learning environments?
The first objective is to understand they are establishing a relationship; walk in a good way and have an open mind. Educators must acknowledge the history of this country and give honour to the learning journey.
What are your thoughts on the future of Indigenous education?
Indigenous education is on the rise. I always share with my students a passage from Chief Dan George’s 1967 speech, A Lament for Confederation: “Oh Great Spirit! Like the Thunderbird of old I shall rise again out of the sea; I shall grab the instruments of the White man’s success – his education, his skills, and with these new tools I shall build my race into the proudest segment of your society.” It is with this education that our Indigenous students can grow past the horrors of our past and move forward, creating a brighter future for our Indigenous youth as they work to Indigenize curriculum.
Is there anything else you would like to share about NITEP?
NITEP is celebrating 50 years this year. I think it is successful is because its founders embraced the pedagogical values of respect, reverence, reciprocity and reconciliation, and the program still ensures that it nurtures the talents and gifts of each of its students. It is important that our program establishes a family ‘home away from home’ environment that allows each student to weave in Indigenous ways of knowing as they learn their teaching requirements.
This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.
Visit the Celebrating 50 Years of NITEP page.
