March 2023
Dear AISES in Canada National Gathering Conference Attendees,
AISES is excited for our fifth annual conference in beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia! Following last year’s conference postponement, we are genuinely grateful to be emerging from a pandemic haze to meet in-person in Vancouver. If this is your first AISES in Canada National Gathering, we extend a special “welcome.”
With more than 630 First Nations communities in Canada, which represent 50 Nations and 50 Indigenous languages, we respectfully acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional territories of the Cayuse, Umatilla, Walla Walla, Stó:lō First Nation, Hul’qumi’num Treaty Group, Tsleil-Waututh Nation, Musqueam, Squamish Nation, and Stz’uminus First Nation. First Nations people have lived in this place and surrounding areas for thousands of years. We respectfully acknowledge the ancient ones and express our gratitude to all who live here today.
By increasing opportunities, creating networks, and resources for Indigenous students and professionals in STEM, we are ensuring our young people have the educational opportunities and technical skills to undertake the many challenges facing First Nations people and their communities.
Our conference theme is Reclaiming Our Wisdom. The theme is especially appropriate as this marks years of commitment to building a strong future for Indigenous students and professionals in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) across Turtle Island. By increasing opportunities, creating networks, and resources for Indigenous students and professionals in STEM, we are ensuring our young people have the educational opportunities and technical skills to undertake the many challenges facing First Nations people and their communities.
Over the next three days we encourage you to listen and learn from presenters who have come from the four directions to share their knowledge, experiences, and expertise in over 60 planned activities, events, and sessions. Our presenters are prepared to discuss their creative ideas, answer questions, and ensure you feel welcome and included. Here is a brief overview:
Throughout your time in Vancouver, we encourage all to participate, contribute, and make memories! AISES staff and volunteers will be around to welcome and help you, including at the conference registration desk. Connect with us whenever you have questions!
Again, thank you for joining us in Vancouver, British Columbia. We look forward to seeing you!
Gary Burnette
(Cheroenhaka Nottoway)
AISES Board Chair
Sarah EchoHawk
(Pawnee)
AISES President
Photos in this issue by David Cournoyer and Montoya Whiteman.
Copywriting by Montoya Whiteman.