
Celebrating Indigenous History Month
A message from President Vivek Goel
A message from President Vivek Goel
By Vivek Goel President and Vice ChancellorAs we enter National Indigenous History Month, we must take time to reflect on the rich and diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples across Canada. This month offers us an opportunity to honor the resilience, wisdom, and achievements of Indigenous communities, while also acknowledging ongoing struggles, and the work that remains to be done in advancing decolonization and reconciliation.Ìý
As you may recall in 2022, we fully committed to reconciliation, Indigenization and decolonization at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ. We, therefore, have a responsibility to center Indigenous perspectives in our curriculum, research and community engagement efforts. We continue to work collaboratively with Indigenous scholars, leaders and organizations to decolonize our practices, promote Indigenous knowledge systems and support the educational aspirations of Indigenous students.Ìý
This fall, the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ's main campus is introducing a new outdoor space dedicated to teaching, celebrating and raising awareness about Indigenous peoples and their cultural practices. The gathering space will host events, celebrations and gatherings. It will also serve as an outdoor classroom for educating on Indigenous content. The space will not only be a significant representation of Indigenous presence on campus but will also honor both historical ties to the land and contemporary Indigenous diversity and land usage. Many thanks to the Office of Indigenous Relations, which worked with an Indigenous architect from BrookMcIlroy to consult with members of the Indigenous campus community to develop the structure’s final design. Ìý
Throughout June, our university will be hosting a series of events, discussions, and educational initiatives to amplify Indigenous voices, celebrate Indigenous cultures, and deepen our understanding of Indigenous histories.Ìý
I encourage all members of our community to visit the Indigenous History Month webpage to learn more about and participate in these activities, and to engage thoughtfully in conversations about decolonization and indigenization.Ìý
This month and beyond, let us reaffirm our commitment to truth and reconciliation, to building meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities, and to creating a university environment that is inclusive, respectful and supportive of Indigenous peoples.Ìý
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President Goel reflects on the academic year as we head into the summer months
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President Vivek Goel recognizes and celebrates the diverse cultures, contributions and communities of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ
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As we prepare to celebrate Spring 2025 convocation this week, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our class of 2025.ÌýÌý
The University of À¶Ý®ÊÓÆµ acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations.