April 9, 2025
For Jason Nakogee, the path to becoming the Truth and Reconciliation Coordinator at Laurentian University has been shaped by his deep connection to his roots, his dedication to service, and his commitment to Indigenous cultural revitalization. A proud member of Attawapiskat First Nation in the Mushkegowuk Territory under Treaty 9 B, Nakogee’s journey reflects resilience, leadership, and an unwavering passion for community-driven change.
Rooted in Tradition, Leading with Purpose
Growing up in Attawapiskat—whose Cree name, Kattawapiskak, which means “Room to pass between the rocks”—Nakogee was raised with a strong understanding of the seasons and their balance. This foundational knowledge, deeply tied to his Cree identity, has guided his work in truth and reconciliation. “It’s important to know where you are from, your name, and your language,” he emphasizes. This philosophy has helped him navigate his role at Laurentian, ensuring that reconciliation efforts remain deeply rooted in Indigenous perspectives. Nakogee’s wholistic approach to Indigenous wellness in learning focuses on the individual’s physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspect of their medicine wheel.
Nakogee’s academic path led him to Laurentian’s Honours Bachelor of Indigenous Social Work program, where he was a transfer student from Canadore College. His studies, combined with his lived experiences, shaped his understanding of community leadership and the complexities of implementing reconciliation initiatives. “I had to learn from the Laurentian University community effort towards Truth and Reconciliation,” he explains. Now, as a leader in that very effort, he oversees the implementation of key recommendations, including the Truth and Reconciliation Report Card, ensuring that progress is both meaningful and measurable.
Military Experience: Discipline, Leadership, and Mentorship
Nakogee’s leadership skills were further refined through his time in the Algonquin Regiment (Northern Pioneers), where he served as a Rifleman, Combat Storesman Driver, and Recruiter. His military service taught him to work independently, make critical decisions under pressure, and mentor others—a skill set that translates directly into his work today.
“My time in the military taught me to be resourceful, innovative, and to exercise good judgment,” he says. “It also helped me develop a strong rapport with people from different backgrounds.”
One particularly meaningful moment for Nakogee was presenting the family of Francis Pegahmagabow—a highly decorated Indigenous soldier from World War I—with the Canadian Aboriginal Veteran Medallion.
Another meaningful moment was Nakogee’s involvement in the reburial of Private Kenneth Donald Duncanson, a Canadian soldier who served during the Second World War and lost his life in the Battle of the Scheldt in Belgium. As part of the ceremony in the Netherlands, Nakogee led a smudging ritual to cleanse a bell that stands at the burial site. He has since returned multiple times to pay his respects.
Advocating for Indigenous Healing and Wellness
As the Kizhaay Anishinaabe Niin Coordinator, he worked to end violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people by engaging men in healing and accountability. His work involved leading healing circles, developing peer support systems, and helping men reintegrate into society after involvement with the justice system.
“The most impactful moments were seeing men take responsibility for their actions and embrace an Indigenous way of healing,” he reflects.
The Power of Teaching and Storytelling
One of Nakogee’s guiding philosophies is Kakeeskinohamadin—“I’ll teach you.” His own healing journey involved rediscovering Indigenous knowledge, from survival skills to language revitalization. He now passes these teachings forward, integrating land-based learning into reconciliation efforts at Laurentian.
“Land-based education is crucial,” he says. By incorporating Anishinaabemowin into outdoor learning experiences, students reconnect with the land and gain a deeper appreciation for Indigenous worldviews.
“The importance of storytelling is learning about kindness,” he says. “By telling our history with compassion, we build cultural preservation.”
Building a Future of Reconciliation
As Laurentian University moves forward with its 10 reconciliation recommendations, Nakogee remains at the forefront, fostering partnerships and ensuring that the university’s bilingual and tricultural mandate includes meaningful Indigenous representation.
His advice to Indigenous students navigating academic and career paths? “Embrace your culture, find strength in your personal journey, and become an effective storyteller.”