June 21 has been set apart by the Government of Canada as a day to honour the truth about our nation’s past – Canada’s Residential Schools, the ‘60s Scoop, and systemic racism - and learn about the experiences of Indigenous peoples in order to inform how Canadians can take meaningful steps towards Reconciliation. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the rich heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples throughout Canada.
Indigenous children in Canada’s Residential Schools were taught English to the exclusion of their own languages. If caught speaking in their mother tongue, punishment could be severe. Photo provided by Dr. Andrew Miller, First Nations University of Canada.
Together we are stronger
The University of Regina, guided by our 2020-2025 Strategic Plan - All Our Relations: kahkiyaw kiwâhkômâkaninawak, believes our strength lies in our relationships and our interconnectedness; that together we are stronger. We believe in the power of community and by acknowledging all our relations, we can honour who we are, where we are, where we have been, and where we are going.
Shalene Bird BEd’23, recipient of the RBC Neekaneewak Cultural Leadership Award, teaches school-age Indigenous children in her home community, helping to revive Indigenous language and culture for generations to come. Photo: University of Regina
Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day
Join us in honouring the truth and celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21) and National Indigenous History Month (June). Let’s put things right… and Go far, together.
…knowing the truth about the experiences of Indigenous peoples will change the hearts and minds of the people of Canada and allow us all to work alongside each other better moving forward… —Lori Campbell, Associate Vice-President (Indigenous Engagement)
Banner Image: Honouring the truth of Canada’s history as we celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day and the journey of Reconciliation. Fancy Dress dance is one way Indigenous culture is expressed and shared with Canadians. Photo: U of R Photography.
Truth & Reconciliation is one of five areas of focus in the University of Regina's 2020-2025 Strategic Plan kahkiyaw kiwȃhkomȃkȃninawak - All Our Relations. We strive to honour and integrate Indigenous ways of knowing and being in our teaching and research endeavours.