United Indigenous Student Council Celebrates a Year of Leadership, Culture and Connection

Monday, Jun 15, 2026

The United Indigenous Student Council (UISC) brought the school year to a meaningful close with a vibrant year-end celebration at Six Nations Community Hall last week. The event welcomed students and staff from secondary schools across Grand Erie for a day filled with drumming, dancing, cultural activities, and opportunities to connect. With ideas generated by student leaders and the support of the Indigenous Education team, the gathering reflected a shared commitment to honouring Indigenous culture, community, and ways of being.

UISC Group Shot 1

Throughout the day, attendees took part in traditional dances and opportunities to learn from one another, in an event that highlighted the leadership and dedication of Indigenous students from across the board. The event showcased the power of student voice and the importance of creating opportunities for Indigenous learners to see themselves reflected, celebrated, and connected. Students shared what the UISC has meant to them and reflected on the impact of the year-end gathering. 

Eli Longboat
Grade 12, Brantford Collegiate Institute and Vocational School:

Eli Longboat

Today is a day of reconnecting with my culture. This is what we’ve done for years and years before colonization, and these are traditions that have survived so much. The dances and the singing are ways of telling stories and passing along those traditions, which continue here today.

Kelly Bliss
Grade 12, Tollgate Technological Skills Centre:

Kelly Bliss

I got involved with the United Indigenous Student Council in Grade 9, thanks to our Indigenous Culture teacher at Tollgate. Over the years, it’s gotten bigger and better – events like social dances are a way to take part in culture and be immersed in the stories behind the dances.

Ryleigh Staats
Indigenous Student Trustee
Grade 11, Delhi District Secondary School:

Ryleigh Staats

There are so many different aspects to the United Indigenous Student Council, and ways to share your ideas. It’s amazing to be able to bring in other people – singers and performers – to share their experiences and journeys with us. I think days like today are healing for everyone in the room.

Levi Butler
Grade 11, Pauline Johnson Collegiate and Vocational School:

Levi Butler

I got involved (in UISC) as a way to learn about my culture. I am Mohawk, Turtle clan. It makes me really happy to be able to meet other students, make new friends, and celebrate days like today together. I would recommend joining the Indigenous Student Association at your school. We are a welcoming community for everybody.

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