Boozhoo, Shé:kon, Waachjiiye, Tansi, Aanii, Tungasugiit, Sago, Tawnshi, Greetings!
Welcome to the Office of Indigenous Relations
We work collaboratively on- and off-campus to not only advance the goals of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, but also to create a long-term vision for the University that is grounded in decolonization. Explore this website to learn more about our work and the ongoing Indigenous relations at Waterloo.
The University of Waterloo 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 centralized within the Office of Indigenous Relations.
Stay Connected with our Seasonal Newsletter
Sign-up for Indigenous Connections, our seasonal newsletter and we will keep you up-to-date on what we are working on, ways you can engage with our office, and provide resources to strengthen and apply your knowledge.
Events
You Don't Know What You Don't Know | Part 1
The Office of Indigenous Relations is pleased to have Ela Smith present Part 1 of this two-part workshop where campus community members will gain a deeper understanding of historic and current realities for First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) people in Ontario and Canada.
Métis 101
Online presentation on Métis culture and history, including with the ethnogenesis of the Métis, "Who Are the Métis?", their unique and rich culture and language. Why did they disappear in history? Where are they today?
You Don't Know What You Don't Know | Part 2
The Office of Indigenous Relations is pleased to have Ela Smith present Part 2 of this two-part online workshop where campus community members will gain a deeper understanding of historic and current realities for First Nations, Métis and Inuit (FNMI) people in Ontario and Canada. Prerequisite: You Don't Know What You Don't Know Part I (INI102)
News
Reflections on two years of impact with the Office of Indigenous Relations
Article originally published in the Daily Bulletin
On January 13, 2022, the Office of Indigenous Relations marked its second anniversary, celebrating two years of impact on campus and beyond. The Indigenous Initiatives Office was renamed as the Indigenous Relations Office under AVP Jean Becker in October 2021. Becker brings over 40 years’ experience in postsecondary Indigenous initiatives.
Veterans' Week: Diverse Experiences of War and Conflict
This week is Veterans' Week and includes Indigenous Veterans' Day (Nov 8) and Remembrance Day (Nov 11). We are thinking about diverse experiences of war and conflict – those who fought, who continue to fight, who are forced to flee, and those who are left behind.
Reflections from Treaties Recognition Week at Waterloo
Written by: Joy Braga
Today marks the last day of Treaties Recognition Week 2021. The Office of Indigenous Relations would like to thank everyone who attended the events that took place this week and dedicated time to learn more about the significance of treaty rights, relationships, and their relevance today. Treaties are a foundational part of Canadian society. All people, both Indigenous and non-Indigenous, have treaty rights and responsibilities. We are all treaty people.