Tomson Highway was given the honour at a ceremony held Friday in Creighton. (Submitted photo/Northlands College)

By Derek Cornet

honouring

Northlands names Cultural Centre after renown writer Tomson Highway

Sep 27, 2024 | 3:14 PM

Northlands College is naming its Cultural Centre at the Creighton Campus in honour of Tomson Highway, an acclaimed Canadian author, playwright, and advocate for Indigenous culture.

This dedication is meant to celebrate Highway’s immense contributions to Indigenous literature and culture, as well as his inspiring role in shaping the Canadian cultural landscape.

“Naming our Cultural Centre after Tomson Highway not only celebrates his remarkable legacy, but also highlights the vibrant cultures that define Northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba,” Northlands President and CEO Karsten Henriksen said in a media release issued Friday.

“Much like Tomson himself, our Creighton Campus stands at the crossroads of these two provinces, blending their histories and communities. This dedication reflects Northlands College’s continued efforts to promote Indigenous culture, uphold the rich traditions and values of this land, and empower our Indigenous learners to build meaningful careers in today’s industries.”

Karsten noted Northlands is committed to providing opportunities for students to excel academically and professionally, while staying deeply rooted in their cultural heritage. He added honouring Tomson Highway in this lasting way strengthens Northlands’ mission to cultivate Indigenous excellence and ensure the next generation of leaders can carry those traditions forward.

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The naming of the cultural centre reflects Northlands College’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating Indigenous heritage in Northern Saskatchewan. Situated at the Creighton Campus, which blends the geography and cultures of both Saskatchewan and Manitoba, the location is meant to mirror the life of Highway himself.

Tomson Highway visited several Northern Saskatchewan communities this week. (Submitted photo/Northlands College)

A member of the Barren Lands First Nation, Highway is from Brochet, a village located in northern Manitoba near the convergence of Saskatchewan and what is now Nunavut. As an author, musician, and advocate, Highway has used his voice to shed light on critical issues such as Indigenous identity, residential schools, and the richness of Cree traditions, making him an iconic figure in Canadian literature.

His works, including the renowned Kiss of the Fur Queen and The Rez Sisters, have influenced generations of writers, artists, and thinkers in Canada and beyond.

Northlands brought Highway to Northern Saskatchewan for a tour this week as part of its annual Cultural Day. He held a presentation at La Ronge’s Churchill Community High School on Monday.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com