World Indigenous Peoples Day

By Victoria Brown

World Indigenous Peoples Day is an official day of celebration to recognize and honour the heritage, cultures and valuable contributions to society by Indigenous peoples. The USC acknowledges the continued impact of colonization and is committed to taking steps forward to both decolonize our campus. 

Whether you are connected with your community or exploring your Indigenous identity, we encourage you to visit the Indigenous Student Centre; a space where you can engage with Indigenous students, staff, and communities; and engage with the USC Indigenous Relations Committee. 

For those who are not Indigenous, it is crucial to take steps towards educating yourself about historical and contemporary events in our country. Take action this World Indigenous Peoples Day by furthering your commitment to be an ally and getting started with the resources below. 

Did you know….

Western University offers a wide array of courses that dive into Indigenous history, legal issues, cultures and languages. Students also have the opportunity to conduct research with Indigenous communities or with a community partner. Areas of research may include, but are not limited to; ecological restoration, land claims, self-government, education, and health and wellness.

It is important that students learn to identify and address complex issues and challenges that Indigenous peoples face today. To add, allyship and solidarity should also be conducted in our daily lives and relationships. We ask students of our campus community to amplify the voices of Indigenous communities and learn meaningful ways to influence change. Indigenous history is Canadian history. It is encouraged that all students at Western University reflect upon and learn the history, sacrifices, cultures, contributions, and strengths of Indigenous peoples.

So, where do you begin to learn about the history of Indigenous Peoples? Click the link below to view our master list of courses organized by various themes!

The list includes courses offered by the Indigenous Studies Program as well as relevant courses offered in other programs within the Faculty of Social Science. Courses available range from the 1000-4000 level.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1-2f_D31XwXtxQIhyOH41UerkOse5eiZKMyau_YEnG-4/edit

Understanding the land we live on 

Native-Land.ca offers an online platform where users can interact with maps of Indigenous territories, treaties, and languages, and locate themselves and their favourite places on the map. Fundamentally, the maps aim to visualize the complexity and diversity of Indigenous peoples, nations, and cultures across the Americas, Australia, and around the world, so that non-Indigenous and Indigenous people alike can increase their understanding and knowledge of the land they live, work, and travel on. 

How to use native-land.ca

Search native-land.caType in the city you reside in {ex. London}On the left-hand side under the search bar, a list of local nations will appearClick the links below or hover over the various nations which the land belongs to and discover the various languages and treaties!

The USC would like to acknowledge that Western University and our offices are situated in London, Ontario, on the traditional lands of the Attawandaron (Neutral), Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and Leni Lenapewak people. This territory also covers lands connected to the London Township Treaty and Sombra Treaty 1796, and the Dish with One Spoon Wampum.

As settlers on these traditional lands, we encourage students to learn about Indigenous peoples, history, and the many contributions they have made in our society.