Rising Star Connor Lafortune is creating space for important and enriching discussions through activism and artistry

Self-preservation, uplifting community, and standing up for what he believes in are all key lessons that artist, activist, and life promoter Connor Lafortune took from his time studying at Nipissing University.

Connor’s artistic work explores an honest reckoning with the human experience. His poetry speaks to the complexities of Queer, Neurodivergent, Indigenous identity, the tension between traditional knowledge in colonial institutions, and the profound ways in which writing can compel us to ponder our place in the world.

“I aim to push the boundaries of Western literature, reflecting the multifaceted nature of my lived experiences as a Queer Indigenous person,” shared Connor. “To do this, I draw on contemporary spirit-led poetry, which powerfully engages with decoloniality, gender, desire, and resistance.”

Connor encourages future artists to continue to recon with their existence and share their gifts with the world. “Share the stories you would want to have heard”.

As a Program Manager and Gashkichige Jig (Teacher) at Feather Carriers, a non-profit organization that offers Indigenous-based training to communities and organizations who wish to take up the work of promoting life and prevent suicide, Connor offers Life Promotion training while hosting events, conducting research, and creating space where Life Promotion initiatives can prosper.

“My work at Feather Carriers allows me to prioritize Indigenous ways of seeing, being and doing while shedding light on strength-based and trauma informed care,” shared Connor.

“I have had the opportunity to travel across Turtle Island in my role as a Life Promoter and share the gifts I have been given,” he said. “My time at Nipissing allowed me to prioritize the silenced voices in my communities while providing the space for enriching discussions. It also inspired many of my poems!”

Connor graduated from Nipissing University in 2023 with a Double Honours Specialization in Indigenous Studies and Gender Equality and Social Justice. He shares that he is proud to be a Nipissing alumnus due to the communities that surround the University and the name of the Nation it seeks to represent.

“As a Dokis First Nations member, I am honoured to have been a visitor on my sister reserve’s territories and have had the opportunity to learn about our collective People in class.”

He reflects specifically on his final two years at Nipissing noting that they will be forever marked by the thought provoking and community-oriented discussions with Drs. Nancy Stevens, Leslie Thielen-Wilson, and Wendy Peters.

He urges all future Indigenous graduates to follow their spirit and share their gifts with the world.  “It is important to continue to take our place in the university while forging the path for more to come.”

Connor completed a Master’s in Indigenous Relations at Laurentian University and is currently pursuing his PhD in Rural and Northern Health.

Connor was recently recognized by the Nipissing University Alumni Advisory Board with the Rising Star Alumni Award. Previously known as the Alumni Achievement Award, this award is presented to a recent graduate of Nipissing University who has demonstrated significant achievements on a professional, community, and/or volunteer basis or has displayed promise of significant future accomplishments.