Indigenous advocate among Trent University’s honourees

Sylvia Maracle, the executive director of the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centres, is one of four exceptional people who will be honored by Trent University during convocation ceremonies in June.

Sylvia Maracle (Skonaganleh:ra), Mohawk from the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory and a member of the Wolf Clan, will receive an honorary degree June 6, recognized for her advocacy work on behalf of Indigenous peoples, and particularly for Indigenous urban youth.

Maracle has been involved in the Friendship Centre movement for several decades. She is the Indigenous chair of the Executive Committee to End Violence against Indigenous Women and Girls, a member of the Indigenous Justice Group, and has served on the Board of Directors for the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health. She is also a founding member of the Native Studies Ph.D. Council at Trent University.

Maracle has worked tirelessly to guide policy and programming to improve the socio-economic status for Indigenous people. She continues to lecture across Canada and around the world on women’s issues, urban development, and the cultural revitalization of Indigenous people.

Trent University will also bestow honorary degrees upon:

• George Cope, president and CEO of BCE Inc. and Bell Canada, for his work as a corporate leader and champion for mental health.
• Stephen Teeple, architect, for his contributions to the body of Canadian architecture in general, and to Trent University’s campus in particular.

and,

• Max (Tibor) Eisen, Holocaust survivor, author and educator, for his efforts in the area of Holocaust education and promotion of human rights.

 “In their uniquely talented ways, these extraordinary Canadians lift up our society,” said Dr. Leo Groarke, president and vice-chancellor at Trent University. “These champions of human dignity and spirit bring worlds together through education, advocacy, artistry and vision. It is a tremendous privilege to celebrate their exemplary achievements with our highest honour, an honorary doctorate from Trent University.”