'Guiding presence': UTM remembers Elder Garry Sault
Garry Sault, an Anishinaabe Elder who was deeply involved with the University of Toronto Mississauga, is being remembered for his wisdom, generosity and ability to bring people together.
Elder Sault, a Knowledge Keeper for the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, passed on Sept. 2 at the age of 79.
UTM’s Office of Indigenous Initiatives said Elder Sault had a “profound and lasting impact.”
“Elder Sault always greeted others with a story and a laugh, creating a sense of welcome and connection that will be dearly missed,” the office said.
“We are honoured to have learned from him, and grateful for the wisdom, warmth and generosity he shared with our community. His commitment to education, storytelling and supporting his community will continue to inspire us.”
Alexandra Gillespie, vice-president, U of T, and principal, UTM, said Elder Sault shaped the community in profound ways, and his legacy will continue to guide UTM on the path toward truth and reconciliation.
“Elder Sault reminded us that reconciliation begins with relationships built on care and understanding,” said Gillespie. “We are honoured to have learned from his example, and we will carry his teachings forward with gratitude.”
Elder Sault was a key presence at All-Nations Powwows and U of T events. He was also part of the Indigenous Action Group, an alliance between UTM faculty and staff and Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation members that aims to advance the First Nation's educational goals of truth and reconciliation, including through the development and delivery of the undergraduate course Anthropology and the Indigenous Peoples of Turtle Island (ANT241H5).
Sherry Fukuzawa, a founding member of the group, remembered Elder Sault as “an inspiring leader, mentor and dear friend.”
“He always spoke straight from the heart and his honesty was tempered with a genius for metaphors and humour,” said Fukuzawa, an associate professor of anthropology. “His songs and teachings live on in all the students, staff and faculty he touched.”
Elder Sault wanted to build bridges between communities, she said, recalling a passage he wrote recently when discussing educational practices.
“All of you come and join me in this good song because we are walking together. We do this by learning from each other and looking at each other from the past where the beginning was, to the time that is right now,” Elder Sault wrote.
“We want (educational institutions) to sing the same song, so they will understand the tone and take it in their hearts. They can even sing the song out of tune because the Creator doesn’t care, as long as they are singing from their hearts.”
The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation said Elder Sault was a storyteller who was deeply committed to cultural education. He was also a veteran of the U.S. navy, a recipient of a coronation medal in recognition of his contributions to Canada and a frequent presence at public gatherings.
“He will be deeply missed not only as a teacher and cultural ambassador, but as a friend, mentor and beloved family member,” the First Nation wrote.
“His ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds made him a bridge between cultures and generations, and his spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege of knowing him.”
The Indigenous Education Team at the Peel District School Board called Elder Sault a “guiding presence.”
“Through his songs, stories and wisdom, he reminded us of the responsibility we hold to honour Treaty rights and ensure Indigenous students are seen, heard and valued,” the board wrote.
“His generosity, humour and vision shaped our path and strengthened our commitment to Indigenous education … His spirit and legacy will continue to inspire our work for generations to come.”
The Indigenous Action Group will honour Elder Garry Sault on Sept. 18 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Maanjiwe nendamowinan in the second-floor reception area.
