Thank you for visiting the Office of Indigenous Relations. We work collaboratively on and off-campus to advance the goals of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, creating a long-term vision for the University, grounded in decolonization. Explore this website to learn more about our work and the ongoing Indigenous relations at UWaterloo.
The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is centralized within the Office of Indigenous Relations.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2022
September 30, 2022 marks the 2nd annual National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
On this day we honour the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and communities. Widespread public commemoration and acknowledgement of the tragic and painful history, continued impact, and intergenerational trauma of Canada's residential school legacy is a vital component of the reconciliation process. The University of Waterloo and the Office of Indigenous relations continue to amplify that truth as we build towards reconciliation. We will also highlight the beauty and resilience of indigeneity, and the strengthening of bonds with allies as we navigate this complex and meaningful day.
Stay Connected with our Seasonal Newsletter
Sign-up for Indigenous Connections, our seasonal newsletter and we will keep you up-to-date on what we are working on, ways you can engage with our office, and provide resources to strengthen and apply your knowledge. Read our latest edition here.
Events
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation 2022
Hosted by the Office of Indigenous Relations,The University of Waterloo Walk for Truth and Reconciliation is an opportunity for the university campus community to connect, participate and learn about the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, also known as Orange Shirt Day.
The sunrise ceremony, opening ceremony and remarks and feast will take place on the BMH Green.
For more information please email indigenousrelations@uwaterloo.ca.
Kevin Lamoureux: Truth and Reconciliation in Higher Learning Institutions
On this year's National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, please join us as we welcome Kevin Lamoureux (virtually). Kevin is a dynamic and gifted speaker, and will be sharing his extensive knowledge around Truth and Reconciliation, and how it pertains to Higher Learning Institutions.
News
Congratulations, Robin Stadelbauer!
Congratulations, Robin Stadelbauer! It is our heart-felt pleasure to announce that Robin has accepted the position of Associate Director in the Office of Indigenous Relations. In this new role, Robin will support the AVP Indigenous Relations in their strategic vision and leadership, represent the AVP, take leadership on key projects, and is responsible for the daily operations of the Indigenous Relations Office.
For those of you who have not had the good fortune to meet Robin, she is Anishinaabe, Potawatomi and Lunaapeew and a citizen of Neyaashiinigmiing (Chippewas of Nawash Unceded First Nation) located on the Saugeen Peninsula (Bruce Peninsula). Robin has a long history at University of Waterloo. As an astute student, she has achieved an Honours Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Development Studies, with a minor in Anthropology. Previously at St. Paul’s University College, Robin joined the University of Waterloo’s Advancement team in 2008 in Records, then became the Assistant to the Associate Vice-President, Development in 2012, then was temporarily reassigned in August 2015 to Executive Officer Administration, appointed to this role permanently in 2017. In 2020, Robin became the first Indigenous Relations Coordinator, where She has brought tremendous knowledge, skill, and commitment to a rapidly changing and challenging environment. Robin has stood solidly at the foundation of the Office of Indigenous Relations, and her appointment to this new position is beyond well-deserved.
Beyond these amazing accomplishments, Robin’s character is what sets her apart. She exudes positivity, enhances collaboration, and has a welcoming nature. Her dedication to family, community, culture, and continuous improvement are reflected in her work and her relationships. We are grateful and privileged to be with you on this path, Robin. Chi Miigwech.
-Office of Indigenous Relations
Congratulations, Savanah Seaton!
Savanah Seaton is a Plains Ojibway anishinaabekwe, makwa dodem, rooted from Waywayseecappo and Keeseekooweenin First Nations. Please join us in welcoming and congratulating Savanah on her new role as the Director of the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre (WISC). She is familiar with the WISC, and with those who use it from her time as a student in Waterloo’s Masters of Industrial Psychology program. Savanah brings with her, vast experience, keen insight and an immense passion for working with Indigenous folks. Drop by the WISC to welcome her and say Aniin (hello)!
Q and A with the experts: The role of Indigenous women in the preservation and transmission of traditional knowledge
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is celebrated globally on August 9. It marks the date of the inaugural session of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations in 1982. In keeping with this year’s theme, University of Waterloo historian and anthropologist Talena Atfield, answers questions about the roles of Indigenous women in preserving and transmitting traditional knowledges. Professor Atfield is a member of the Kanien’kehá:ka Nation of the Six Nations of the Grand River.