National Indigenous Peoples Day: time for reflection and action
A message from Bruno Silvestre, Acting Dean of the Asper School of Business
Today, the Asper School of Business recognizes and celebrates National Indigenous Peoples Day. We are located on Treaty 1 Territory, the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree and Dene peoples, and on the homeland of the Métis Nation.
Reconciliation through Business Scholarship is one of the strategic priorities outlined in our 2019-23 Pursuing our Asper-ations Strategic Plan. This priority calls on us to develop curricula and promote research incorporating Indigenous perspectives, in addition to advancing reconciliation and mutual learning among Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, staff and faculty. To continue down our path of reconciliation, the Asper School of Business has allotted fellowships for qualified Indigenous students entering the Stu Clark Graduate School to increase the awareness and sharing of Indigenous perspectives within the program.
*This June also marks more than a year since the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc shared their discovery of 215 Indigenous children’s remains at the site of a former Kamloops residential school. The search throughout Turtle Island continues as research indicates the possibility of thousands of unmarked graves, confirming what many Indigenous people have known for generations. My thoughts are with everyone affected.
Today I ask that we commit ourselves to meaningful reconciliation beyond National Indigenous Peoples Day. If you are unsure where to begin your path toward reconciliation, UM Indigenous Engagement and Communications has created a top 10 recommended media list. Recommendations range from books, musicians, social media influencers, films, and online resources suggested by the UM Indigenous community.
The Asper School of Business recognizes that reconciliation is not a destination, but a transformational process that does not stop after June 21. Reconciliation through Business Scholarship is an ongoing commitment and we continue to invest in making our School a safe learning environment while incorporating Indigenous values.
Thank you, ekosi, miigwech, maarsii, and happy National Indigenous Peoples Day!
Bruno S. Silvestre, PhD
Acting Dean, I.H. Asper School of Business
Acting CPA Manitoba Chair in Business Leadership
CN Professor in Supply Chain Management
*Some information in this statement may be distressing. A national Residential School Crisis Line is available for anyone affected: 1-866-925-4419.