OKANAGAN COLLEGE EAGLE STAFF

In September 2018, at the 10th Annual Youth Exhibition Powwow, Okanagan College was presented with a ceremonial Eagle Staff, created by Elder Richard Jackson of the Lower Nicola Indian Band. Jackson, along with Noel Ferguson of the Canoe Creek Nation, gave the staff to Okanagan College as a symbol of respect recognizing the College’s efforts to embrace Indigenous culture and values in supporting Indigenous learners.

Many Indigenous peoples consider the eagle to be the most honoured and respected animal in the natural world. The eagle relays prayers to the creator and often represents the voice of the people. The use of eagle feathers on the staff establish it as a sacred item of reverence. The staff is also adorned with jingle bells. They symbolize the jingle dress and the healing potential of the dance of the same name. The medicine wheels and four directions on the staff represent the multitude of teachings in holism, interconnectedness, and living in balance.

This ceremonial Eagle Staff plays a prominent role in Okanagan College commencement and convocation ceremonies. Signifying the respectful assembly of all nations gathering in unity to celebrate, the Eagle Staff is carried at the front of the Platform Party in the graduation procession. The staff is drummed into the ceremony with an Honour Song. When the procession reaches the platform, the staff is placed in the flag stand alongside the nation and institution flags. The role of the bearer is an honour bestowed on someone who is recognized as living in a good way.

The Okanagan College Eagle Staff joins the traditions of pipers, gowns, speeches and formalities which are the hallmarks of commencement and convocation ceremonies at Okanagan College. The staff has taken its place as an integral part of an institutional culture which recognizes the value of inclusion, respect and an appreciation of diversity in ways of knowing.