On anniversary of Indigenous strategy launch UCalgary looks at next phase of Reconciliation journey

Calgary, AB – In 2017 the University of Calgary launched its Indigenous Strategy, ii’ taa’poh’to’p, dedicated to the guiding principles of finding truth and building reconciliation through teaching and learning. On November 28 the Office of Indigenous Engagement will host an ii’ taa’poh’to’p Journey Update event, named Becoming Relatives, which will mark UCalgary’s six years of transformation by renewing and celebrating our continued journey of discovery and change.

UCalgary is dedicated to fostering authentic relationships with Indigenous communities by creating a teaching, learning, and research environment that supports the sharing of Indigenous peoples’ knowledge systems in a safe space. Key to this safe, ethical space is Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples becoming relatives through mutual understanding, compassion, and respect.

“Indigenous and non-Indigenous systems are very different, but ultimately we have the same goals. In this safe, ethical space we can better understand each other and take care not to impose one knowledge system over another. We are learning and growing together, as friends. We are becoming relatives.”

Dr. Reg Crowshoe, Hon. LLD’01m, a Pikani Elder and cultural advisor for the Office of Indigenous Engagement

Today, in advance of the event, the Office of Indigenous Engagement releases the 2023 Indigenous Strategy Journey Update report chronicling UCalgary’s successes in promoting transformation. Among the many success stories is increased Indigenous student enrolment, increased support and access for Indigenous learners, and innovative research excellence in Indigenous-focused projects and community partnerships.

A shining example of the latter is UCalgary’s groundbreaking One Child, Every Child research initiative which is guided by ii’ taa’poh’to’p, walking parallel paths with Indigenous elders and scholars. One Child, Every Child brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, child health research institutes, healthcare providers, and local, national, and global stakeholders to accelerate better health outcomes for children and their families.

“This year’s Journey Update is a testament to the significant strides we have made in truth and reconciliation. Our community’s engagement and support have been instrumental in this journey, and we look forward to nurturing those relationships as we continue to elevate and support Indigenous perspectives.”

Dr. Shawna Cunningham, EdD, acting vice-provost (Indigenous Engagement)

Keynote speaker at the event will be Dr. Dwayne Donald, PhD, a professor from the University of Alberta and a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Reimagining Teacher Education with Indigenous Wisdom Traditions. UCalgary president, Ed McCauley will lead introductions and discussions.

Media Inquiries

Heath McCoy
Senior Communications Specialist
Media, Issues and Outreach
C: 403-607-8461
hjmccoy@ucalgary.ca

The University of Calgary’s Indigenous Strategy, ii’ taa’poh’to’p, is a commitment to deep evolutionary transformation by reimagining ways of knowing, doing, connecting and being. Walking parallel paths together, “in a good way,” UCalgary is moving toward genuine reconciliation and Indigenization. 

About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada’s entrepreneurial university, located in Canada’s most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 35,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada’s leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary.

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