Why Is This Project So Vital?
This project will be a major positive step forward for the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority, the community, and the Indigenous / Conservation Authority relationship, helping to build meaningful relationships between Indigenous and settler communities.
The Indigenous Learning Centre project will provide a venue for community engagement in Indigenous cultural heritage and environmental learning.
The Indigenous Learning Centre project and new galleries will ensure the continued vitality of the Indigenous and Environmental learning experience.
This project will address existing asset and structural issues at the Longwoods Road Conservation Area Resource Centre.
More revenue will result for sustainability – diversifying revenue sources for Longwoods Road Conservation Area programs.
But After 50 Years…
Programming capacity, community needs, and staff have now outgrown the current Resource Centre / Museum.
The idea for a new Indigenous Learning Centre culminated from the results of 2 research reports that included Indigenous and community public input: Longwoods Road Conservation Area Visioning Exercise July – November 2017, and Longwoods Resource Centre Feasibility Study December 2019.
Studies were endorsed by the Lower Thames Valley Conservation Authority Board of Directors.
DONOR TESTIMONIALS:
Thank you to Ronald Williamson who has generously donated $125,000 to this campaign!
“I am so pleased to contribute to the campaign to enhance the facilities at Longwoods Road Conservation Area and Ska-nah-Doht. It has been a centre for natural and collaborative Indigenous education for half a century and is the embodiment of the life lesson that natural and cultural heritage are inextricably linked. This significant complex deserves our support.”
Ronald F. Williamson, PhD – AS I • Providing Archaeological & Cultural Heritage Services
MEDIA RELEASES and NEWS COVERAGE
August 13, 2023 – Ska-Nah-Doht Village Celebrates 50th Anniversary – CTV News London
November 13, 2023 – About Our Foundation and the Campaign
November 22, 2023 – Commencement Ceremony for New Indigenous Learning Centre and Revitalization of Ska-Nah-Doht Museum
November 22, 2023 – CTV News London – Ska-Nah-Doht Museum to undergo renovation
November 22, 2023 – Youtube Video Part 1 of 2 – Commencement Ceremony – Speakers
November 22, 2023 – Youtube Video Part 2 of 2 – Commencement Ceremony – Gordon Sands and Eagle Flight Singers and Dancers
February 24, 2024 – Alison Klages: Ska-Nah-Doht Village & Museum – 50 Years! – Youtube video of her presentation at the History Symposium in London
