Janis Kahentóktha Monture, Community Services

Executive Director and CEO, Canadian Museums Association
Applied Museum Studies, Class of 2003

Janis Kahentóktha Monture’s path to becoming a prominent figure in the museum and cultural sector reflects her deep commitment to her community and cultural heritage. Born and raised on the Six Nations of the Grand River in Southern Ontario, Monture’s upbringing was steeped in a deep connection to her land and people. Her parents, active community members, played a pivotal role in shaping her identity and values.

“My father was the director of land claims, and my mother worked at the Woodland Cultural Centre in the language department,” Monture recalls. “Growing up, I was always aware of who I was and my cultural identity.”

Initially, Monture wanted to become a lawyer, inspired by her father’s work. She pursued a degree in history at the University of Western Ontario, intending to go to law school. However, during her pre-law courses, she realized that law was not her calling. This led to a difficult but significant conversation with her father, where she decided to change her career path.

“I was prepping for my LSATs and realized I didn’t want to be a lawyer,” she shares. “I remember my father being quite upset, but I knew I needed to find a career that truly resonated with me.”

Reflecting on her fond memories of working at the Woodland Cultural Centre during her summers, Monture decided to pursue museum studies. Her father supported her decision, and she chose Algonquin College for its proximity to national museums in Ottawa.
“I wanted to work in the museum sector to support and promote our culture,” Monture explains. “My goal was to become a curator and make a meaningful impact in my community.”

At Algonquin College, Monture thrived, gaining practical experience through internships at various institutions, including the Canadian Museum of History. These opportunities were instrumental in shaping her career, providing her with the hands-on skills needed to excel in the museum field.

One of the defining moments in Monture’s career came during her time at Algonquin College. On her first field trip to a national museum, she was struck by the lack of Indigenous representation beyond pre-contact exhibits. This realization fueled her determination to address these gaps and ensure that Indigenous cultures were accurately and respectfully represented in museums.

“I was angry and disappointed,” she recalls. “I felt that my culture was under glass, frozen in time, and not acknowledged as a living, vibrant community.”

Monture’s final year project at Algonquin College reflected her commitment to her community. She developed a sacred and ceremonial policy for Indigenous belongings held in museums, working closely with community faith keepers and the Woodland Cultural Centre. Her project culminated in a presentation at Harvard University, highlighting her groundbreaking work.

“I was invited to present my policy at Harvard,” Monture says with pride. “It was an incredible experience and validated my efforts to disrupt the museum sector and advocate for my community.”

After graduating, Monture faced a crossroads: she could pursue an internship at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian or apply for the executive director position at the Woodland Cultural Centre. Encouraged by her mentors, she applied for the executive director role and was appointed to the position.

“I was 23 years old and newly graduated, appointed as the executive director,” she recalls. “It was a daunting responsibility, but I was committed to making a difference.”

For 16 years, Monture led the Woodland Cultural Centre, spearheading numerous initiatives to repatriate Indigenous belongings and ensure their proper use within the community. Her efforts included deaccessioning sacred masks and returning them to the community, a decision that was met with both support and criticism.

“I knew it was the right thing to do,” she explains. “These items belonged with the community, not on museum shelves.”

Monture’s leadership extends beyond her professional accomplishments. She is known for her compassionate and fair leadership style, always prioritizing her team’s well-being and fostering a collaborative work environment. Her diplomatic skills, honed through years of navigating complex situations, have earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.

Today, as the CEO of the Canadian Museum Association, Monture continues to advocate for Indigenous representation and self-determination in museums. Her work has taken her across the globe, collaborating with Indigenous communities in Australia, New Zealand, Norway, and Taiwan.

Monture’s story is a powerful example of how dedication to cultural stewardship and community service can drive meaningful change. Her journey is a source of inspiration for future generations, proving that passion and perseverance can indeed reshape the narrative.

Reflecting on her journey, Monture offers this advice to aspiring cultural leaders: “Be active in your community, volunteer, and be visible. It’s crucial for people to see you and feel that they can approach you. Leadership is about serving your community and making a positive impact.”