Indigenous Initiatives

Ziibiing

John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture

Kelly Hannah-Moffat

Scott Mabury

First Nations House

Hart House

Indigenous

Landmark

Subheadline

The Ziibiing space includes a central pavilion, amphitheatre and plantings of medicinal trees and shrubs

The ��Ƶ commemorated the official opening of Ziibiing, an Indigenous landscape project that uses architecture, horticulture and storytelling to honour Indigenous cultures and provide a space for community members to gather, learn and host ceremonies on the St. George campus.

The opening celebration for Ziibiing, held Monday Sept. 23, included a traditional Elder’s opening, a welcome song and the burning of a sacred fire – the first fire to be lit in Ziibiing’s pavilion and one of several Indigenous ceremonial practices that are welcome on all three U of T campuses.

Here’s how the event unfolded through the lens of U of T photographers:

(photo by Polina Teif)

Michael White, director of First Nations House, tends to the sacred fire in the Ziibiing pavilion as Jenny Blackbird, resource centre and programs co-ordinator at First Nations House, looks on.

Ceremonial fires, smudging and pipe ceremonies are among the important Indigenous practices that take place on U of T’s three campuses.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Blackbird performs a traditional song to welcome U of T community members to the celebration.

(photo by Polina Teif)

The vision for Ziibiing was developed by an Indigenous Advisory Committee in collaboration with the Indigenous Design Studio at Brook McIlroy, who in turn consulted with Indigenous students, faculty, staff, the Council of Indigenous Initiatives Elders' Circle and representatives of local First Nations.

The project was born out of Answering the Call: Wecheehetowin, the final report of the Steering Committee for the ��Ƶ Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which outlined the need for dedicated Indigenous spaces on campus.

From left: James Bird and Shannon Simpson (photos by Polina Teif)(photo by Polina Teif)

Several members of the U of T community spoke at the event.

“Our voices, traditions and histories are woven into the fabric of this new landscape, sending a clear signal that we are seen, that we matter and that we belong,” said Shannon Simpson, senior director of the Office of Indigenous Initiatives and a member of the Mississaugas of Alderville First Nation, in her remarks at the ceremony.

(photo by Polina Teif)

Ziibiing is named for the Anishinaabemowin word for “river,” a reference to the Taddle Creek waterway that once flowed through the area and served as a gathering place for Indigenous Peoples.

It’s an example of how Indigenous design and Western architectural disciplines can come together to assist in placemaking, according to James Bird, a Knowledge Keeper from the Nehiyawak and Dene Nation and PhD candidate in the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design.

“In the practice of architecture, there are ways one can approach the creation of space and its activation through design," said Bird. “This alternative viewpoint assigns agency to the metaphysical aspects that exist within Indigenous cultures and in turn allows metaphysical relationships to be made into physical form.”

(photo by Polina Teif)

In her remarks to the event’s attendees, Kelly Hannah-Moffat, U of T’s vice-president, people strategy, equity and culture, said that, in addition to serving a vital role as a teaching and ceremonial space for Indigenous students, employees and Elders, Ziibiing will encourage the entire U of T community to “find innovative ways to Indigenize this institution.”

She noted the space has already hosted a recent land-based learning workshop that invited members of the U of T community to deepen their understanding of Indigenous world views, teachings and connections to the land. The workshop was organized by the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, with future sessions scheduled for Oct. 22 and Nov. 19.

(photo by Polina Teif)

The Ziibiing pavilion is supported by 13 columns that symbolize the 13 moons of the year. They circle a fire pit where ceremonial fires may be lit and maintained by Indigenous firekeepers.

(photo by David Lee)

The creation of Ziibiing took place alongside the Landmark Project, which aimed to revitalize the historic core of the St. George campus.

Scott Mabury, U of T’s vice-president, operations and real estate partnerships, said U of T community members have already embraced Ziibiing, as well as the other new spaces, as evidenced by their increased use of the reimagined landscapes.

“We didn’t know what we didn’t have before,” he said.

‘We belong here’: Indigenous beaded stole to be introduced at U of T’s spring convocation ceremonies

mattimar — Thu, 30 May 2024 14:18:50 +0000

‘We belong here’: Indigenous beaded stole to be introduced at U of T’s spring convocation ceremonies

mattimar Thu, 05/30/2024 - 10:18

Cutline

An Indigenous stole, created by artist Katie Longboat and inspired by nature around campus, will be introduced to this spring’s U of T convocation ceremonies as a symbol of the university’s enduring partnership with Indigenous Peoples (photo by Polina Teif)

Mariam Matti

Topic

Convocation 2024

Convocation Hall

Indigenous

Artist Katie Longboat hopes the beadwork she created for an Indigenous stole to be worn during the ��Ƶ’s convocation ceremonies sparks a conversation about reconciliation within the education system.

The stole will be unveiled on June 3 – worn by the Eagle Feather Bearer who leads the chancellor’s procession into Convocation Hall.

The incorporation of the Eagle Feather, Eagle Feather Bearer and beaded stole into U of T’s official convocation ceremonies symbolizes the university’s enduring partnership with Indigenous Peoples and grew out of a recent review of U of T’s convocation.

Katie Longboat (photo by Polina Teif)

“I think actions like this – incorporating beadwork on a stole and including Indigenous culture and arts – highlight the diversity of First Nations, Métis and Inuit people, and says, ‘Yes, we belong here. I belong here and have a space in post-secondary education,’” says Longboat, a Mohawk and Cree bead artist and educator based in Toronto.

“I hope the message cycles down to the younger generations – the youth who are now entering post-secondary education – and they can feel that they have a place here, too.”

Originally from Six Nations of the Grand River, Longboat began beading when she was 14 years old in an effort to connect with her community. Her design for the stole was inspired by the nature she saw when she walked around the university.

“Some of the elements include oak leaves, acorns – there are pine needles all around the beaded piece,” she says. “The central flower, blue poppy flower and then the trillium flower at the top. There’s a beaver at the bottom of the beadwork, which is representative of the ��Ƶ symbols.

“Another element in the beadwork is the waterways. If you look closely, there are what look like streams flowing from the top to the bottom of the work and that represents the waterways in Toronto that are connected to the area.”

The stole's design was inspired by the nature Longboat observed at U of T (photo by Polina Teif)

Shannon Simpson, senior director of the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, met with Indigenous leaders from the three campuses to discuss potential themes for the stole. U of T’s Council of Indigenous Initiatives was also involved in the process.

“We wanted something that represents all three campuses and something that signifies the land U of T sits on,” Simpson says. “[But] we didn’t want to get in the way of the creative process.”

Shannon Simpson (photo by Johnny Guatto)

Using two different techniques, Longboat created two separate pieces for convocation – the beadwork for the stole and a beaded stem to hold the Eagle Feather. She used flat-stitch beading for the stole and peyote-stitch bead weaving for the stem of the feather.

In 2017, the Steering Committee for the ��Ƶ Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada released its final report, Wecheehetowin. It called on the university to act in six key areas to engage in the ongoing process of reconciliation. A Convocation Advisory Review Committee was subsequently formed with a mandate that included reviewing ceremony elements with a goal to preserve U of T’s traditions while incorporating Indigenous cultures.

Simpson emphasizes the importance of inclusion and notes that Indigenous students previously felt under-represented.

“I think for a lot of our students, many of them have said they’re the first person in their family to attend a post-secondary institution, or that they feel like they’re the only Indigenous student in many of their classes,” she says.

“By the time they get their degree, they had a lot of firsts in their journey. To see these elements in their convocation, to see the recognition – I think that makes them feel like Indigenous students matter at U of T and that their experience has been valued.”

Originally from Six Nations of the Grand River, Longboat began beading when she was 14 years old (photo by Polina Teif)

Simpson says she is excited to have Longboat’s work featured in U of T’s convocation ceremonies.

“Katie does beautiful work and she’s a member of one of our host nations,” she says. “So, that was really important to us as well – to have someone from one of our local communities really be involved in this way.”

The addition of the beaded stole, Eagle Feather and Eagle Feather Bearer are among several initiatives that seek to make convocation more inclusive for Indigenous students. Others include a land acknowledgment and a protocol where Indigenous graduands can choose to wear traditional regalia with academic hood in lieu of an academic gown to their ceremonies.

Simpson says the university’s journey to reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples still requires much work and relationship-building – but that the recent changes are steps in the right direction.

Longboat, meanwhile, hopes the stole’s wearers feel a sense of pride and that Indigenous students receive its intended message: “We belong here.”

U of T astronomers and Kâpapâmahchakwêw – Wandering Spirit School collaborate on science programming for Indigenous students

rahul.kalvapalle — Tue, 14 May 2024 18:23:37 +0000

U of T astronomers and Kâpapâmahchakwêw – Wandering Spirit School collaborate on science programming for Indigenous students

rahul.kalvapalle Tue, 05/14/2024 - 14:23

Cutline

Students, teachers and caregivers from Kâpapâmahchakwêw – Wandering Spirit School gather with U of T astronomers to watch the April 8 total solar eclipse at Chiefswood Park on Six Nations of the Grand River (photo by Suresh Sivanandam)

Michael Pereira

Topic

Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics

Astronomy & Astrophysics

Faculty of Arts & Science

Indigenous

Subheadline

The groundwork is currently being laid for a coding club and mentoring programs, among other initiatives

A group of astronomers from the ��Ƶ and students, teachers and caregivers from Toronto’s Kâpapâmahchakwêw – Wandering Spirit School recently shared a once-in-a-lifetime experience: witnessing a total solar eclipse.

The April 8 gathering, which took place in Chiefswood Park on Six Nations of the Grand River, saw the astronomers bring telescopes with solar filters that allowed viewers to observe sunspots and watch as the moon slowly eclipsed the sun. The event also served as a forum for young learners and community members to share traditional knowledge and ask plenty of questions.

It was one of many engagements planned as part of a partnership between U of T’s Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics and the Kâpapâmahchakwêw – Wandering Spirit School, which was founded in 1977 and gives students from kindergarten to Grade 12 the opportunity to learn about Anishinaabe cultural traditions.

Totality at Chiefswood Park (photo by Kara Manovich)

In the future, there are also plans for a coding club, mentoring and tutoring programs, and training for teachers.

“Kâpapâmahchakwêw – Wandering Spirit School is grateful for the growing partnership with Dunlap because it provides an opportunity to practise reciprocity in knowledge sharing,” said Elise Twyford, the school’s principal. “The students and community learned about – and experienced – astrophysics and astronomy, and also had the opportunity to build their skills in sharing traditional knowledge and world views.

“I appreciate the care and thoughtfulness of the Dunlap and ��Ƶ team in collaborating with Kâpapâmahchakwêw students as partners in learning.”

The roots of the partnership stretch back to 2022 when Emma Stromberg, Indigenous partnership adviser at the Faculty of Arts & Science, and Associate Professor Susan Hill, director of the Centre for Indigenous Studies, approached Dunlap with an opportunity to work with teachers and students from Kâpapâmahchakwêw.

A close-up photo of the moon totally eclipsing the sun on April 8 above Chiefswood Park (photo by Suresh Sivanandam)

“We wanted to see if we could match up the needs and interests of the school to resources at U of T, to build something that can be sustained,” Stromberg says. “Consistent with U of T’s commitments to reconciliation, it is incumbent on all of us to think of ways to redress, in small and big ways, the impacts of settler colonialism and push resources into the community wherever possible.”

Some 20 members of the Dunlap community have since volunteered to help, with many of them recently participating in a workshop with John Croutch from the Office of Indigenous Initiatives to learn about the continued impacts of settler colonialism and what it means to be an ally to Indigenous Peoples.

The U of T astronomers said the opportunity to share a total solar eclipse was a memorable moment for everyone involved.

“You could hear lots of kids screaming in excitement and people gasping in awe at seeing totality,” said Associate Professor Suresh Sivanandam, interim director of the Dunlap Institute for Astronomy & Astrophysics in the Faculty of Arts & Science. “When I walked out of there, I thought, ‘These are the moments in my job where I feel completely fulfilled because I helped other people experience the joy of astronomy.’”

Students recreate the total solar eclipse with paint and pastels on black paper (photo by Emma Stromberg)

Professor Roberto Abraham, chair of the faculty’s David A. Dunlap department of astronomy and astrophysics, said he was the same age as some of the students when he first saw a total solar eclipse.

“It was magic,” he said. “Once you see a total solar eclipse, you won’t be the same person afterwards.”

Earlier this year, Sivanandam and Abraham visited the school to meet students, teachers and staff and hear about how astronomers at U of T can best support them.

For Twyford, the relationship with U of T immerses Kâpapâmahchakwêw students in the fields of astronomy and astrophysics in ways that wouldn’t be possible in the classroom.

“I know that many students now see the wonder and possibility of these sciences and are even more motivated to continue their learning,” Twyford said. “It also helps to complement the traditional and cultural.”

More than 10,000 U of T community members take part in Indigenous cultural competency training

Christopher.Sorensen — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 21:05:10 +0000

More than 10,000 U of T community members take part in Indigenous cultural competency training

Christopher.Sorensen Fri, 04/12/2024 - 17:05

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John Croutch, Indigenous training co-ordinator and a member of Wiikwemkoong Unceded First Nation, says he hopes participants walk away from his sessions with a greater understanding of the impacts of settler colonialism and its focus on the erasure of Indigenous Peoples (photo by Johnny Guatto)

Topic

Subheadline

In response to high demand, the Office of Indigenous Initiatives at U of T has hired a second training co-ordinator to deliver four-part learning series

The ��Ƶ’s Office of Indigenous Initiatives has hit a milestone in its educational efforts: providing Indigenous cultural competency training to more than 10,000 students, staff, faculty and librarians across the university.

John Croutch, Indigenous training co-ordinator and a member of Wiikwemkoong Unceded First Nation, leads the four-part learning series, which explores Canada’s hidden history of Indigenous-settler relations, the impact of state decisions and policies, the role of land acknowledgments, and the nature of allyship.

“Reconciliation is about building a relationship between Indigenous Peoples and non-Indigenous Peoples so that we can see that we are not so different,” says Croutch, who joined the Office of Indigenous Initiatives in 2018.

“As you start to build those relationships, you start to feel more comfortable around Indigenous Peoples because you know what we've been through.”

Given high demand for the sessions, the Office of Indigenous Initiatives recently hired a second Indigenous training co-ordinator, Andrea Johns, to support the delivery of programming and create more opportunities for engagement.

Croutch says he hopes participants walk away from his sessions with a greater understanding of the impacts of settler colonialism and its focus on the erasure of Indigenous Peoples.

“I hope it will help them understand some of the socioeconomic conditions that Indigenous Peoples live with and the fact that we were segregated in schools, hospitals and on reserves … in the past, the average Canadian could never build a relationship with us,” he says. “But that’s beginning to change.”

While the training sessions touch on uncomfortable truths that can be difficult for many Canadians to hear, Croutch’s expansive knowledge, strong facilitation skills and willingness to share lived experiences allow him to connect deeply with learners.

“John is a talented trainer who is able to deliver complex and challenging content in a way that informs the participant without placing blame and offers solutions and a path forward in reconciliation efforts,” says Shannon Simpson, senior director of the Office of Indigenous Initiatives. “He has been able to reach community members who may not otherwise have considered this important and, in doing so, has shifted views and opinions.”

Participants’ feedback echo these sentiments. They describe Croutch as “a deeply engaged and passionate expert” who “challenges us with uncomfortable truths in a way that inspires further reflection and learning.”

Another participant described the sessions as “the history lesson we should have gotten in school.”

While Croutch says he still encounters some individuals who want to debate the history or challenge his teachings, he’s seen a shift in how people react to the training over the years.

“I have noticed a definite upswing in awareness and less resistance than I did in 2019,” he says. “I believe that the university is doing much more to facilitate that awareness of Indigenous presence and futurity … for example, Indigenous land acknowledgments, the accommodation of smudging, the Ziibiing landscape project, the Maanjiwe nendamowinan building at the Mississauga campus, Feather Bearers at convocation, and the Indigenous Tuition Initiative to name a few.

“There is also less resistance to the trainings, I believe, because as more people train, the resisters are beginning to become the outliers.”

Acknowledging the land: Showcasing Indigenous artists, voices and experiences

lanthierj — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 19:54:37 +0000

Acknowledging the land: Showcasing Indigenous artists, voices and experiences

lanthierj Tue, 12/12/2023 - 14:54

Cutline

Chancellor Rose Patten looks at the new art pieces inside U of T’s Simcoe Hall (all photos by Polina Teif)

Mariam Matti

Topic

City & Culture

UTogether

Office of the President

Art Museum

President Meric Gertler

Subheadline

'This is an incredible example of prioritizing Indigenous space while showcasing Indigenous excellence and resiliency'

A new art installation inside the ��Ƶ’s Simcoe Hall is shining a spotlight on some of Canada’s most respected Indigenous artists while giving the community an opportunity to reimagine the concept of public space.

The exhibition, acknowledging the land, honours Indigenous continuity, resilience and self-determination. The long-term installation occupies space previously reserved for paintings of U of T leaders who have shaped the university over its 196-year history – a gesture acknowledging the importance of making space for Indigenous voices and presence.

Artist Katherine Takpannie's work is featured in a new art installation at U of T’s Simcoe Hall (photo by Polina Teif)

Artist Katherine Takpannie said her mother – a residential school survivor who was born in Apex Hill, Nvt., before being taken away at age six – was in tears when she learned her daughter’s work would be featured at the exhibit.

“It was impactful for her because her life and what happened to Indigenous Peoples has been swept under the rug for so long,” said Takpannie, who was born in Montreal.

Artist Katherine Takpannie's portrait titled All Eyes on Mik’Ma’Ki (Ma Myriah) is displayed (photo by Polina Teif)

Takpannie’s portrait is of Inuk/L’nu/Scottish grassroots activist Ma Myriah Peace. It recognizes Peace’s frontline work in support of Mi’Kmaq fishers’ rights and pays homage to her role as a determined and dedicated community organizer.

Other artists whose work is featured include: Rebecca Belmore, Catherine Blackburn, Lori Blondeau, Dana Claxton, Caroline Monnet and Laakkuluk Williamson Bathory with Jamie Griffiths.

Under the leadership of the President’s Office, and through wide-ranging conversations with Indigenous artists, curators, faculty members and staff, the installation was produced by the Art Museum with the generous support of U of T’s Office of Indigenous Initiatives.

“It was an honour to support this exhibit and see the reimagining of the walls of Simcoe Hall come to life,” said Shannon Simpson, senior director of the Office of Indigenous Initiatives.

“This is an incredible example of prioritizing Indigenous space while showcasing Indigenous excellence and resiliency.”

Those who wish to view the artwork at Simcoe Hall can register for a guided visit through Eventbrite. While the Dec. 13 visit is already fully booked, there are visits scheduled for Jan. 10 and Feb. 14 at 3:30 p.m. Those who can’t make the listed dates can contact Melody Lu, operations assistant at U of T’s Art Museum (mel.lu@utoronto.ca) to plan group tours.

A launch to celebrate the exhibit was recently held inside U of T’s Governing Council chambers.

Artist Dana Claxton’s portrait titled Headdress is displayed (photo by Polina Teif)

U of T President Meric Gertler said the portraits invite the public to “hear voices of courage, resilience and solidarity that for so long have been ignored or silenced.”

He added that the installation is among several actions taken by U of T in response to Wecheehetowin, the final report of the Steering Committee for the ��Ƶ’s Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Committee of Canada, and will serve as a reminder to the university community that the work of reconciliation is ongoing and must remain a priority.

Barbara Fischer, executive director and chief curator of the Art Museum at U of T, said the discussions around the role of traditional leadership portraits in public-facing spaces inside Simcoe Hall began years ago, but the “clincher came in 2020.”

“There were rising questions about public art and monuments prompted by the Black Lives Matter movement – why are there permanent monuments which tell of histories that exclude others? It was such an intensive time to rethink public space at every level, and it continues to be vitally important today” said Fischer, who is an associate professor, teaching stream, at the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design.

Barbara Fischer is the executive director and chief curator of the Art Museum at U of T (photo by Polina Teif)

She added that wide-ranging conversations with Indigenous artists, curators, faculty members and staff led to the installation becoming a reality.

“The voices of Indigenous artists are critical to confronting colonial history and relations with the land; their works attest to the amazing flourishing of Indigenous art and artists all across the country,” she said.

“We are super proud that the artists agreed to be presented in this context with their works.”

Rose Patten, U of T’s chancellor, said she continues to be in awe of the artwork in the exhibit.

“Let me add my thanks to the artists represented in it and to the staff responsible for all of this,” she told those gathered at the launch. “You have made a very impactful contribution to our academic mission as an institution dedicated to inclusive excellence.”

Artist Catherine Blackburn stands in front of her portrait that’s featured inside U of T’s Simcoe Hall (photo by Polina Teif)

Blackburn, a multidisciplinary artist and jeweller who spoke at the event alongside Takpannie, said she feels honoured to be featured alongside some of her favourite artists – but that the installation comes with its challenges.

“I’m addressing the effects of a settler institution, in a settler institution” she said. “To have this work celebrated alongside these powerful women is beautiful, and intense. This exhibition is a powerful intervention bound through love, land, resurgence and relationality, and that is worth celebrating.”

Artist Catherine Blackburn’s portrait titled But there’s no scar? II is displayed (photo by Polina Teif)

Blackburn’s artwork, titled “But there’s no scar? II,” depicts a kneeling figure, with long, braided hair, who faces away from the viewer and wears a cream-coloured, unsmoked deer hide bearing a bruise stitched in iridescent beadwork.

“The original textile work is two-thread applied beadwork, which is the same technique my grandmother would have used when making her garment work,” Blackburn said, adding that beading inspired her to reconnect with her cultural identity.

Born in Patuanak, Sask., and a member of the English River First Nation, Blackburn’s work addresses complexities of memory, history and identity connected to her personal narrative.

“I speak to personal and familial [trauma] rooted in the residential school system,” she said.

“I’m always aware of the tension within my work, constantly interrogating whose voices are present as to avoid generalization because our cultures are so unique.”

U of T to cover tuition for students from nine First Nations communities

lanthierj — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 18:15:02 +0000

U of T to cover tuition for students from nine First Nations communities

lanthierj Fri, 09/22/2023 - 14:15

Cutline

The ceremonial Eagle Feather and U of T's ceremonial mace at a 2023 convocation ceremony. The Eagle Feather was gifted to the Office of the President by Elders at the 2017 entrustment ceremony for the ��Ƶ Truth and Reconciliation Steering Committee’s Report, “Answering the Call: Wecheehetowin” (photo by Lisa Sakulensky)

Adina Bresge

Topic

The ��Ƶ will cover the cost of tuition for students from nine First Nations as part of its efforts to make the university more accessible and inclusive for Indigenous students – and strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities.

The initiative, which launches Oct. 11, will support members of First Nations communities whose territories include or are adjacent to U of T’s campuses. They are: Alderville First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, Nation Huronne-Wendat/Huron-Wendat First Nation, Mississauga First Nation, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte (Tyendinaga Mohawk) and Six Nations of the Grand River.

In addition, Indigenous or Native American students from the continental United States will be charged the domestic Ontario tuition rate in recognition of the Jay Treaty of 1794, which acknowledges the colonial nature of the border between the U.S. and Canada.

In May of 2022, U of T began applying the domestic Ontario tuition rate to Indigenous students living elsewhere in Canada.

The initiatives apply to current and future Indigenous students enrolled in most undergraduate, graduate and professional credit-based programs across the three campuses – part of a suite of programs available to Indigenous students as part of U of T’s commitment to increasing access and support services.

Shannon Simpson (photo by Johnny Guatto)

Shannon Simpson, senior director in the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, says the changes aim to make U of T more accessible to Indigenous students in keeping with the 34 calls to action outlined in Answering the Call: Wecheehetowin, the final report of the Steering Committee for the ��Ƶ Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

“I’m proud that U of T is reducing barriers to education for these nine First Nations,” says Simpson. “I think it’s really going to help strengthen our relationships with our neighbouring communities, which is so important to building those pathways to U of T that will increase recruitment.”

Simpson says each of the nine First Nations was engaged in consultations and is supportive of the initiative. Each community will verify their students’ eligibility and communicate that information back to the university.

Throughout its development, the initiative has benefited from the “full and complete buy-in” of U of T’s senior leadership, Simpson adds. “I'm proud to work for a university that is committed to investing in meaningful action to work towards Truth and Reconciliation.”

U of T President Meric Gertler called the tuition initiatives an important step on the university’s journey to reconciliation and thanked Indigenous leaders for providing guidance and support.

“The ��Ƶ is committed to strengthening the recruitment and inclusion of Indigenous students while building strong and lasting relationships with our neighbouring Indigenous communities," President Gertler says. "We know much more remains to be done. We’re grateful to Indigenous community members for their engagement as we learn from them and work to redress historical injustices and create a better future.”

He added that the tuition changes complement other efforts led by the U of T steering committee on Truth and Reconciliation, including: incorporating Indigenous content into curricula; supporting Indigenous research programs; creating physical spaces to honour and acknowledge Indigenous Peoples, traditions and histories; and expanding the presence of Indigenous students, staff, faculty and librarians across U of T’s three campuses.

Elder Andrew Wesley, left, presents U of T’s Truth and Reconciliation steering committee's report to Provost Cheryl Regehr and President Meric Gertler in 2017 (photo by Johnny Guatto)

Cheryl Regehr, U of T’s vice-president and provost, says the tuition programs aim to facilitate the exchange of knowledge, culture and experiences that is at the core of U of T’s mission.

“We are dedicated to making U of T a place where Indigenous knowledge, traditions and perspectives are not only valued but tightly woven throughout our academic community,” Regehr says. “We hope Indigenous students accept this invitation to come to U of T, share their insights and make new discoveries that benefit us all.”

Simpson says she hopes to see more universities create similar programs to give Indigenous students as many academic options as possible.

“I’m excited for U of T, and I’m excited for what will happen beyond U of T,” she says. “I want to see this for so many other institutions, so that we’re really increasing access to education across the board.”

Details about the program and application process will be shared with prospective and current students on Oct. 11 via the website of the University Registrar’s Office.

U of T hosts global scholars for NAISA conference on Indigenous Studies

siddiq22 — Thu, 11 May 2023 20:57:30 +0000

U of T hosts global scholars for NAISA conference on Indigenous Studies

siddiq22 Thu, 05/11/2023 - 16:57

Cutline

The 14th-annual Native American and Indigenous Studies Association (NAISA) conference, which is expected to draw 1,000 attendees from around the world, kicks off in Convocation Hall on U of T's St. George campus (photo by Johnny Guatto)

Topic

Centre for Indigenous Studies

Faculty of Arts & Science

Global

Research

Women and Gender Studies

The ��Ƶ will welcome Indigenous scholars and researchers from around the world this week for the 14th annual Native American and Indigenous Studies Association (NAISA) conference.

The conference, which is expected to draw 1,000 attendees, will be held on U of T’s St. George campus from May 11 to 13.

Susan Hill and Karyn Recollet (photos supplied)

NAISA is an interdisciplinary professional organization that brings together faculty and students from post-secondary institutions (including several U of T scholars); community-based scholars, artists and Elders; and independent professionals working in the field of Indigenous Studies.

“NAISA came about in order to create a place where Indigenous Studies scholars could meet and work on the broad themes that tie us together, and to advance a broader understanding of the importance of Indigenous Studies to academia. Strengthening Indigenous Studies positions us to better support Indigenous communities and Nations,” said conference co-chair Susan Hill, director of U of T’s Centre for Indigenous Studies and an associate professor of Indigenous Studies and history in the Faculty of Arts & Science.

With sessions planned on everything from food sovereignty to language revitalization and contemporary Indigenous cinema, the 2023 event is the first in-person NAISA conference since 2019, when it was hosted by the University of Waikato in New Zealand. U of T had planned to host the 2020 conference, which was cancelled due to the pandemic and rescheduled for this year.

The conference will highlight how Toronto – which originates from the Mohawk word “Tkaronto,” meaning “where the trees stand in the water” – has been home to the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe Peoples and part of the original homelands of the Wendat People.

U of T News spoke with Hill and fellow conference co-chair Karyn Recollet, assistant professor in the Women & Gender Studies Institute in the Faculty of Arts & Science, about what to expect at NAISA 2023 – which will include panel and roundtable discussions, presentations of research papers, film screenings, performances and more.

Hundreds of attendees are coming from around the world – what will they experience at this year’s NAISA conference?

Hill: One of the things that we committed to as the local host committee was to take the lead in terms of our own cultural values that we bring from our specific communities – and also honouring the practices that are common in the Toronto Indigenous community.

One of those key pieces was about ethical care and doing our best to provide spaces that would meet people’s needs – so we were very purposeful in choosing locations that were close together.

It was also important for us to feed our guests – that’s a key value that’s embodied in the communities all around us. When you come to somebody’s home, they will offer you a meal or a beverage. That’s such an important part of hospitality, and in inviting our friends and colleagues from around the world, we want to make sure we’re treating them as if they were coming into our home.

We’re particularly excited about the fact that we've partnered with local Indigenous chefs to help make that happen and to provide our guests with the foods that come from the land and the waters of the territory.

In academia, sometimes we take food for granted and think, “Oh, it's just fuel for the body.” But in Indigenous cultures, we're taught that it's food for our mind, our body and our souls. And so we've tried to make that as fruitful as possible in this gathering, and also in everything we do in nourishing people’s minds, bodies and spirits in the work we’re doing together.

Through NAISA’s call for papers and in your planning, did any themes for the conference emerge?

(photo by Tabassum Siddiqui)

Recollet: In reaching out to our various partners – including U of T Mississauga – when we were starting to imagine what this conference would look like, some very interesting interconnections and webs started to develop, which helped the planning process quite a bit.

We knew that to determine the shape of our gathering, we wanted to focus on Black and Indigenous relationships, on queer and Two-Spirit thought and thinking, and to acknowledge that Toronto is a very special place that has a unique relationship to water. That helped us to think through some of the main ideas and offerings we might be able to have. Drawing on our relationships with the land – and with each other – helped in mapping things out.

What will be some of the highlights at this year’s conference?

Hill: One of the goals that NAISA has always tried to embody with their conferences is recognizing that the papers that get proposed and accepted are going to come from all over the place, but also making sure that there's time and space for both the people coming from other places, as well as the people from the local area, to have the opportunity to learn more about the host area.

Here in in Toronto, we've tried to be really thoughtful about the ways that we curate those particular opportunities – for example, we’ll have walking tours of our campus, OCAD University, Toronto Metropolitan University, the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum. So, the folks who are coming to our campus from all over the world have a chance to learn about some of the things that are happening here on the ground in our city, at our universities and arts organizations.

Recollet: Another special moment we’ve envisioned is offering opportunities for graduate-student mentorship, where the students can sit and share a meal together and talk to each other about their work and knowledge transmission.

We’ve also curated spaces called “CARE Hubs” in both the buildings that are hosting the sessions, because sometimes conferences can be draining – you might need a quiet space to centre and just enjoy solitude. So those will have cots, medicines, soothing music, some magazines – spaces to relax and enjoy.

The welcome ceremony at Convocation Hall will feature singers and drummers, and we encourage everyone to visit the book fair and market hall at the Howard Ferguson Dining Hall, where more than 30 publishers and academic institutions will be set up.

What do you hope attendees take away from the conference?

Hill: We hope that all our visitors will have the opportunity to engage with some amazing people who are connected within this global network and are able to walk away with a deeper understanding about the vitality and rigour of Indigenous studies.

A lot of times people think it’s just about culture, but it’s important to understand the deep knowledge that goes into the revitalization and the celebration of the cultures from which we come – and the hard work being put into creating vibrant futures for the generations to come.

Progress and the path ahead: How U of T is working towards reconciliation across its three campuses

lanthierj — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 19:42:11 +0000

Progress and the path ahead: How U of T is working towards reconciliation across its three campuses

lanthierj Tue, 12/13/2022 - 14:42

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Shannon Simpson (L) and Jodie Glean (photos by Moussa Faddoul)

Lesa Holmes

Topic

It has been five years since the ��Ƶ was entrusted with the U of T Truth and Reconciliation Commission Steering Committee’s final report: Answering the Call: Wecheehetowin – and progress is being made in addressing its 34 calls to action.

Tasked with reviewing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s final report and making recommendations that fall within the U of T’s mission and mandate, the steering committee issued calls to action that span six categories: Indigenous spaces; Indigenous faculty and staff; Indigenous curriculum; Indigenous research ethics and community relationships; Indigenous students and Indigenous co-curricular education; and institutional leadership/implementation.

In response, U of T created the Office of Indigenous Initiatives to guide and support the implementation of the calls, report on institutional progress, and serve as a central resource for learning, consultation and support to the U of T community.

Shannon Simpson, senior director, office of Indigenous initiatives, and Jodie Glean, executive director, equity, diversity, and inclusion, spoke to U of T News about their work and the university’s progress in fulfilling the steering committee’s recommendations to date.

If there were one or two key things you would want people to know about the university’s work so far in response to Answering the Call: Wecheehetowin, what would they be? 

Simpson: Establishing the Office of Indigenous Initiatives was a huge and important first step to guide and support this work. This office is a touch point for our communities to connect with before beginning this work. Indigenous Peoples should be engaged with and brought into the conversation and, at the same time, we need to ensure there is a large enough team to support the work.

The focus on Indigenous hiring is also key. We now have Indigenous staff and faculty across all three campuses, and there are opportunities for growth and different roles across different portfolios, which is really exciting. The number of Indigenous faculty who have joined U of T over the past five years has also been amazing. Dedicated funding for bringing in Indigenous staff and faculty speaks to the commitment to ensure we’re getting Indigenous people into positions and makes the university a place Indigenous Peoples want to be part of.

Glean: I also want to highlight the efforts being taken across the tri-campus focused on decolonizing curriculum, and the initiatives that are being implemented as a result of intentional work taking place in this area. We must ensure that our commitments outlined in Answering the Call: Wecheehetowin are front of mind at all times. They need to be visible and be a part of orientation for new folks joining the university – students, faculty, staff, librarians and leadership.

In the past five years, what feedback have you heard from the U of T community about the progress made so far?

Simpson: Like anything, the feedback we hear depends on the individual’s relationship with the university. Those who have been here for a long time can see the positive progress. The Indigenous community here has grown and there is so much interest in other departments, divisions and units that didn’t exist before. People are starting to realize and recognize their responsibility to do something and are more aware of what those things are.

Some individuals with a newer relationship with U of T are very attuned to what they want to see and want things to happen quite quickly. This can be challenging, as the process of change requires patience at times.

From my end, I like to consider how I can better communicate what is being done. How can I connect in different ways with students, for example, so they understand what is happening, how we are listening, and how we hear what they want?

Glean: The increase of Indigenous community members over the years is a direct result of the hard work and advocacy of Indigenous Peoples and community partners at the university – while recognizing that there is still much work that lies ahead in our reconciliation efforts.

As we look to the next five years, what are the key priorities or challenges you want to focus on addressing?

Simpson: I think one of the biggest challenges is keeping this in the forefront, keeping people thinking about how they’re going to move forward, what they’re going to do next, how they’re going to keep progress happening. Remembering that this work is not really ever going to be done – the work will continue to build and be a continuation of what we've accomplished.

We’ve seen a lot of Indigenous faculty and staff hired, and we want to see more. We want people to not be the only Indigenous staff in their department. We want there to be spaces – indoor and outdoor – that are dedicated, intentional Indigenous spaces. Making spaces that benefit all students, but also ensure that Indigenous students see themselves here, have amazing experiences here, get to work with Indigenous researchers, and participate in really important work.

Glean: The EDI team will continue to work with our Indigenous partners across the tri-campus. Deepening our relationships with Indigenous communities will be critical to ensure EDI work is serving the efforts to advance reconciliation. As an institution we must continue investing resources in enhancing the experiences and resources available to Indigenous Peoples at the university. We will continue working to strengthen our resolution supports for people experiencing anti-Indigenous racism and provide support in ways that are culturally relevant and responsive.

This interview has been condensed.

Learn about how to engage with this work at U of T

‘Your ancestors walk with you’: Eagle Feather Bearers reflect on new tradition ahead of fall convocation

lanthierj — Thu, 03 Nov 2022 16:25:33 +0000

‘Your ancestors walk with you’: Eagle Feather Bearers reflect on new tradition ahead of fall convocation

lanthierj Thu, 11/03/2022 - 12:25

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Eagle Feather Bearers are members of the U of T community and an Indigenous community. The new ceremonial role was introduced during spring convocation this year (all photos by Lisa Sakulensky)

Topic

Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering

Convocation Hall

The chancellor’s procession at the ��Ƶ’s fall convocation ceremonies will once again be led by the Eagle Feather Bearer – a ceremonial role first adopted in the spring as a symbol of the university’s enduring partnership with Indigenous Peoples.

As a sign of the university’s profound respect for Indigenous communities and cultures, the Eagle Feather Bearer carries a ceremonial Eagle Feather into Convocation Hall at the outset of each convocation ceremony, followed by the bedel carrying U of T’s gold-plated mace.

Tee Duke, director of Indigenous Initiatives at U of T Mississauga, leads the chancellor’s procession during a convocation ceremony in the spring (photo by Lisa Sakulensky)

Nominated by their faculty or division, Eagle Feather Bearers are members of the U of T community and an Indigenous community.

“The Eagle Feather, gifted to the Office of the President by U of T’s Elders Circle on behalf of U of T’s Truth and Reconciliation Steering Committee in 2017, carries great honour, and symbolizes wisdom and respect,” said Shannon Simpson, director of Indigenous initiatives at the university.

“Our Bearers are ambassadors of the community, and their presence lets Indigenous students know they matter, and they are seen.”

U of T News spoke with three community members who were Eagle Feather Bearers during spring convocation (see the full list below). They shared their personal experiences of the role, offered words of advice and reflected on messages of hope for future generations.

John Croutch

Indigenous training co-ordinator, Office of Indigenous Initiatives

(Photo by Lisa Sakulensky)

“It felt bittersweet, but it was exciting and it was important to me. For too long, Indigenous people have been excluded, and to be leading the procession was a refreshing reminder that showed Indigenous Peoples have a role to play.

Years ago, I received an Eagle Feather – one of the highest honours you can receive, because the eagle flies closest to the Creator – from Elder Lillian McGregor, and Lillian told me it signifies recognizing a person with vision. Vision is about asking where we are going when it comes to reconciliation, and I think it’s significant that U of T implemented this new element in recognition of Indigenous Peoples.

I want young people who are carrying that feather to be proud of who they are and to hold their heads high – and to recognize that this is a small step, but an important step, to opening the university up for future generations to see themselves as a successful, vibrant, and important part of this country.”

Kaeliana Smoke

Master’s student in anthropology, U of T Mississauga

(Photo by Lisa Sakulensky)

“It was an honour to be part of the ceremony, and it felt so rewarding after all the work that I’ve done over the years at U of T. At UTM, I created multiple new programs – I started the first Indigenous book club at UTM, for example – and so to be part of something new that helped increase Indigenous visibility and made us feel seen during the ceremony, and to honour the Indigenous community at U of T, it felt very on theme for me.

My parents were there, and my grandparents were there. I was really proud of that moment, and I was so happy for them to be there.

To future Eagle Feather Bearers – as you’re walking up on that stage, it’s going to feel so profound and so powerful. It’s going to feel like your ancestors walk with you, like you’re being supported by an entire U of T community behind you, and by everyone that came before you.”

Jason Bazylak

Professor in the department of mechanical & industrial engineering in the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, dean’s adviser on Indigenous initiatives

(Photo by Lisa Sakulensky)

“I had a very positive experience. I thought the university was very supportive in adopting and honouring the Eagle Feather Bearer role within the ceremony. Leading the procession was symbolic of the presence of Indigenous Peoples on Turtle Island before all of this, even before the long history here at U of T.

I sent a note out to my network of Indigenous colleagues around Canada and the United States to say, ‘Look what we did!’ and I was quite proud of it. A couple colleagues made a point to come out and see me and we took some selfies because they thought it was a big occasion. I was pleased to be a part of it, and I will continue to be a part of it [this fall].

It’s always brought to light that there’s a long journey towards reconciliation, and we’re very far from that. But we still need to take the time to celebrate the accomplishments as we move along that path. And as leaders in the Indigenous community, I think it’s wonderful to be able to show – particularly our younger students and junior faculty and staff – that we are here, we are present, and we are welcome.”

Here is the full list of Eagle Feather Bearers who took part in spring convocation (and who are featured in the article’s main image and the photo viewer below):

Shannon Simpson
Miyopin Cheechoo
Sara Wolfe
Michael White
Sandra Laronde
Lisa Boivin
Jeff Trapp
Robin Gray
Tee Duke
Stacy Allison-Cassin
Kaeliana Smoke
Lindsey Fechtig
Riley Yesno
Naulaq LeDrew
Jennifer Brant
Mike DeGagne
Jason Bazylak
Jonathan Hamilton-Diabo
John Croutch
Juanita Muise
Sarena Johnson
Jaris Swidrovich
Constance Simmonds
Jacque Lavallee

Office of Indigenous Initiatives launched at U of T Mississauga

Christopher.Sorensen — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 14:44:39 +0000

Office of Indigenous Initiatives launched at U of T Mississauga

Christopher.Sorensen Tue, 10/11/2022 - 10:44

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Tee Duke, director of U of T Mississauga's Office of Indigenous Initiatives, aims to expand the university’s appeal to a broader audience from Indigenous backgrounds and foster a stronger relationship with Indigenous communities (photo by Drew Lesiuczok)

Kate Martin

Topic