The all-inclusive HGSE experience is about opportunities beyond the classroom. We asked several students to share their experience with different social organizations. Loyola Rankin is in HGSE’s Higher Education master’s program and shares her experience as a member of the Future Indigenous Educators Resisting Colonial Education (FIERCE) organization.
Tell us about your organization.
Future Indigenous Educators Resisting Colonial Education (FIERCE) is for Native and Indigenous students to bring awareness about Indigenous issues to HGSE and beyond. We do this by sharing resources that challenge the colonial narrative, raising awareness through school wide events, and holding space for Native and Indigenous students.
What events or programming do you have planned for the year?
We have many different events planned for the Academic Year speaking to current issues Native and Indigenous communities are facing. FIERCE members are creating events that they are passionate about and that brings attention to their voice and ideas. Current programming includes FIERCE Indigenous Education Experience panel, documentary screenings, cooking and storytelling socials, school planning in Native communities, and more. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates!
Why did you join this group?
Community is very important and having a support group has been critical to our educational careers. There is a lot that is left out of education; Native and Indigenous experiences are one of them. We want space to see ourselves and communities in these spaces. We also aim to have spaces where our experiences as Native and Indigenous people are shared.
How is the online format of your organization different from the in-person format?
Most of us are new to HGSE and have adapted to the new online format. Many of us are located across the US but are still building community. The obstacles are allowing us to be creative and innovative in our planning and experience at HGSE. There is a lot we have gained in this experience together.
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