An Indigenous History Month Celebration
Join us on June 17 for an online panel discussion featuring Indigenous researchers and thought leaders in an exploration of Indigenous physical activity, sport and wellness in Canada.
From Indigenous contributions to physical culture in Canada (such as the canoe, kayak, toboggan and the game of lacrosse) to the consumption of sport within the Indian Residential School System, the panelists will explore how Indigenous physical culture has influenced Canadian culture.
Don’t miss this riveting discussion that will root us in history while examining the connections to contemporary issues, from access to physical activity spaces to Indigenous athletes in high-performance sport.
Reserve your spot at Movement as Medicine: Indigenous Perspectives on Physical Culture
Event Details
- June 17, 2026 from 12 - 1 p.m.
- Online format (link will be sent to registrants a few days before the event)
Featured Panelists
Lynn Lavallee (she/her) is Anishinaabe registered with the Métis Nation of Ontario. Lynn completed degrees in kinesiology and psychology (BA), community health (MSc), and social work (Ph.D.). She currently holds the position of Strategic Lead, Indigenous Resurgence in the Faculty of Community Services at Toronto Metropolitan University. Her research focuses on Indigenous research ethics and methodology, as well as Indigenous health and well-being. Lynn achieved full professor status in 2019.
Tricia McGuire-Adams, from Bingwi Neyaashi Anishinaabek, is an Anishinaabe health, well-being and physical activity researcher in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education at the University of Toronto. She received her doctorate in human kinetics from the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa and a Master of Arts in Indigenous Governance from the University of Victoria. Her scholarship is rooted in socio-cultural studies of sport and Indigenous studies, in which she researches Indigenous health and well-being through a resurgence framework.
John Waaseyaabin Hupfield (he/him) is Anishinaabe, Marten clan, and a member of Wasauksing First Nation. His research looks at “powwow as place”; a critical importance for the Anishnaabeg, where pedagogy, praxis, and knowledge are enacted through song, movement, and the land. His work is rooted within his role as grassroots community-based educator, teaching powwow dance alongside his partner Deanne Hupfield, to Indigenous folx in Toronto over the past 15 years. As a grass dancer, he travels to powwows across the Anishinaabeg nation, and Turtle Island.
Michael Mahkwa (Bear) Auksi is the Coordinator, Indigenous Initiatives at the University of Toronto’s KPE Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Office. He is of Anishinaabe (Lac Seul First Nation) Estonian descent and grew up in Toronto’s Annex. He completed his Master of Social Work degree (TMU, ’13) under the supervision of fellow speaker, Lynn Lavallee. Mike brings a unique perspective on the intersections of sport, identity, wellness, and Indigenous experiences, thanks to his years playing hockey for teams such as our very own U of T Varsity Blues (U SPORTS) and Team Estonia (IIHF).