(Toronto, July 12, 2019) Today, Chiefs of Ontario and Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald would like to congratulate recipient Tesa Fiddler of Muskrat Dam First Nation and Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug on receiving the prestigious Canadian Teachers’ Federation 2019 Outstanding Indigenous Educator award, nominated by the Ontario English Catholic Teachers’ Association for her leadership in Indigenous education and excellence in teaching that reflects Indigenous culture.
“First, I would like to send my warm congratulations to Tesa Fiddler and all award recipients at the Canadian Teachers’ Federation Annual General Meeting today,” said Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Archibald. “These awards provide us with an opportunity to hear the significant stories of those who go above and beyond for our youth. Your dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for your innovation and support.”
Tesa Fiddler is being recognized for her longstanding work and leadership in Indigenous education and demonstrated excellence in teaching that reflects Indigenous culture. Tesa has worked in many settings and has created culturally relevant materials and programs for all ages. In particular, her skills to support and empower youth to rekindle their connection to First Nations’ true shared history and preservation of indigenous culture is admirable within Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities across northwestern Ontario. Tesa stated that she has an, “ability to create and support culturally appropriate and relevant learning environments” and holds many qualifications through her own dedication to lifelong learning.
“Education is of upmost priority among First Nations in Ontario and Leadership alike. It is the foundation for our youth to build a bright future, that is full of opportunities,” said Regional Chief Archibald. “We congratulate Tesa Fiddler in her work for championing the ongoing success of both First Nations and non-First Nations learners. Her unique cross-cultural technique is the key to preserving our collective indigenous language, heritage and culture. Tesa Fiddler is an inspiration and a true role model for all to follow.”
“The Chiefs of Ontario have been working on the facilitation of a complete transformation of First Nations k-12 education in Ontario. The advocacy, dedication and hard work of our First Nations educators, including Ms Fiddler, have made this change possible. Thank you for the important work you’ve done and for your contributions outside of the traditional Ontario curriculum for the betterment of our young people.”
“On behalf of Nishnawbe Aski Nation, I congratulate Tesa for her outstanding work in Indigenous education. As a caring educator, wife and mother, Tesa has devoted herself to helping youth understand who they are and where they come from, recognize their gifts, and recognize the resilience of Indigenous Peoples. Tesa approaches her work with an open heart and an open mind, and her passion for education is matched only by her compassion for youth. I thank the Canadian Teacher’s Federation for recognizing the value of her contributions to education.” – Nishnawbe Aski Nation Deputy Grand Chief Derek Fox (Nishnawbe Aski Nation Education Portfolio Holder)
Ontario Regional Chief, RoseAnne Archibald
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The Chiefs of Ontario is a political forum and a secretariat for collective decision making, action, and advocacy for the 133 First Nation communities located within the boundaries of the province of Ontario, Canada. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter @ChiefsOfOntario.
Chiefs of Ontario – Media Contact:
Genna Benson
Communications Officer
Telephone: 416-523-4020
Email: Genna.Benson@coo.org
