Acknowledging Traditional Territories

As part of its commitment to Indigenous Achievement, the U of M shares a Traditional Territories Acknowledgement at all of its formal events. To facilitate the use and sharing of this statement, wallet-sized cards have been created with the Traditional Territories Acknowledgement on them.

“I take great pride in working for a University that is embracing First Nations, Metis and Inuit values, traditions, and cultures, infusing Indigenous ways of knowing into our campuses, and leading the dialogue on reconciliation,” says Deborah Young, executive lead for Indigenous Achievement.

“By sharing this acknowledgement, we are showing our Indigenous students, staff, faculty and guests that we are committed to creating a learning environment that welcomes and supports them.

“At the same time, stating this acknowledgement publicly is an opportunity for the entire University community to increase their awareness of Indigenous history and perspectives,” says Young.

The acknowledgement reads:

The University of Manitoba campuses are located on original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dakota, and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation.

We respect the Treaties that were made on these territories, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we dedicate ourselves to move forward in partnership with Indigenous communities in a spirit of reconciliation and collaboration.

The Traditional Territories Acknowledgement Statement is also available online at umanitoba.ca/indigenous and can be printed and used by any faculty member and support staff.

Ruth Shead