The life’s work of Indigenous trailblazer Harriet Jacobs is being celebrated with the creation of a new scholarship.
Well known for her groundbreaking accomplishments in the realm of Indigenous rights and education, Jacobs recently passed away at age 88.
According to a media release from the Lambton Kent District School Board, the educator marked many firsts over the course of her life.
Beginning in 1975 when Indigenous voices were still marginalized and overlooked, Jacobs served as the first Native Studies teacher at Wallaceburg District Secondary School (WDSS); a high school sports coach; and the first supervisor of Canada’s first Indigenous child-care centre – the Walpole Island Day Care Centre.
Jacobs also established the first Culture Club at WDSS – now called the Future Elders Group – and she built the school’s Indigenous education and support program from the ground up.
Upon her retirement in 2004, the Native Studies office was renamed the Harriet Jacobs Centre.
“Harriet stood firm in her belief that Indigenous students deserved dedicated support and cultural connection within the school system,” the release stated. “Her courage and advocacy laid the foundation for the programs we have today.”
The scholarship award will celebrate leadership, resilience, and cultural pride, reflecting the values Jacobs championed throughout her life. Details regarding criteria and sponsorship will be shared in the coming months.
