Moccasin Identifier Treaty Marker Unveiling

Join the Faculty of Environment, in partnership with The Moccasin Identifier, for the official unveiling of our permanent Moccasin Identifier Treaty Marker.

Collaboratively designed by the University of Waterloo's Creative Studio team and The Moccasin Identifier team, this permanent installation serves as a visual reminder of the treaty relationships, Indigenous history, and ongoing presence of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples on these lands. Situated on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and within the Haldimand Tract — the land granted to the Six Nations of the Grand River under the Haldimand Proclamation — this marker reflects the Faculty of Environment's ongoing commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

Significance of the Moccasin & Treaty Marker

The moccasins used by the Moccasin Identifier are not meant to represent a single moment frozen in the past. They are symbols of living cultures.

First Nations Peoples represented by these moccasins:

• Lived on these lands long before Canada existed
• Entered into Treaties as sovereign Nations
• Continue to live, govern, and care for the land today

Each moccasin connects past, present, and future—inviting reflection on what it means to be in relationship with the land and with one another.

By embedding this custom-designed treaty marker directly into the campus landscape, the Faculty of Environment creates a space for reflection, learning, and active treaty awareness for students, faculty, staff, and the broader Waterloo community.

10:30 am - Arrival and Gathering - Welcome and light refreshments

11:00 am - Welcome and Drumming by Indigenous Women's Hand Drum Group

11:05 am - Traditional Opening by Myeengun Henry

11:15 am - Treaty Marker Remarks and Design Story - Keynote remarks from Faculty of Environment leadership, Moccasin Identifier representatives, and Creative Studio on the co-design process.

11:45 am - Treaty Marker Unveiling - Ceremonial unveiling of the permanent marker, smudge, and ceremonial drum performance.

11:50 am - Interactive Stencil Activity - Hands-on stencil painting workshop led by Moccasin Identifier educators.

12:00 pm - Community Reception - Networking, light food and drinks, and educational display tables.

Getting Here

• Public Transit: The event location is directly accessible via the ION Light Rail (University of Waterloo Station) and Grand River Transit (GRT) bus routes.

• Visitor Parking: Paid visitor parking is available nearby in Lot M or at United College.

Accessibility & Accommodations

• Wheelchair Access: The green space across from EV3 feature step-free, paved pathways. The EV3 building features automatic door operators and accessible washroom facilities.

• Seating: Dedicated priority seating is reserved for Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and guests with mobility needs.

• Weather Contingency: In the event of severe weather, the entire ceremony and workshop will transition indoors to the EV3 Main Atrium.

Admission is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Please reserve your spot in advance through Eventbrite so we can ensure an accessible and well-prepared experience for all attendees.