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Tuesday, March 3, 2026

Indigenous Connections - Winter 2026 | Volume 18

The Walking Together Edition

As we are halfway through the winter season, we’re reminded of the teachings this time of year carries. Winter invites us to slow our pace, to rest our spirits, and to reflect on the paths we’ve walked. Mother Earth lies tucked beneath a shimmering blanket of snow, taking her own time to breathe and restore. Following her example, we gather with our families, friends, and communities, sharing stories, laughter, and the seeds of ideas that will guide us into the warmer months ahead. 

In that same spirit of connection and renewal, we’re excited to share this month’s updates, opportunities, upcoming events, and highlights from recent gatherings that have brought us together. 

Monday, March 2, 2026

Announcing the Annual Momentum Report 2024-2025

The Office of Indigenous Relations has released the University of Waterloo’s first Indigenous Momentum Report, marking the beginning of annual reporting tied to the Indigenous Strategic Plan. 

This inaugural edition highlights key milestones led by OIR over the past year. In future years, the Momentum Report will expand to include updates from the Indigenous Action Plan, as well as stories and initiatives from Faculties, Academic Support Units, and partners across campus. 

A student studying
Tuesday, January 20, 2026 11:00 am - 12:30 pm EST (GMT -05:00)

Indspire Building Brighter Futures Scholarship Application Workshop for Indigenous Students

Join the Office of Indigenous Relations for a hands-on workshop supporting Indigenous students who are enrolled at the University of Waterloo in navigating the Indspire: Building Brighter Futures application. Participants will receive guided, step-by-step support from OIR staff, with an Indspire representative supporting virtually to share insights and answer questions.

PhD student Dale Bellaire’s research examines how culturally grounded, land-informed connections can enhance well-being, belonging, and identity for Indigenous Elders living in urban long-term care.
Monday, December 15, 2025

Cultural connection key to healthy aging for Indigenous elders

PhD student Dale Bellaire’s research explores how culturally grounded connections can support the well-being of Indigenous Elders living in urban long-term care. Guided by a Medicine Wheel framework, her work emphasizes holistic health and centres Elders as collaborators in shaping meaningful, land-informed spaces and activities. The research contributes to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and aims to strengthen identity, belonging, and cultural resurgence for Indigenous older adults.

Savannah Sloat
Monday, December 15, 2025

Giving history a voice

New research at the University of Waterloo is centring Haudenosaunee voices in documenting the 1988 repatriation of eleven wampum belts to the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. Led by Tuscarora scholar Savannah Sloat and historian Dr. Talena Atfield, the project gathers first-hand community accounts to highlight wampum as living agreements tied to law, governance, and sovereignty.

People dancing in a circle
Thursday, February 12, 2026 5:30 pm - 8:00 pm EST (GMT -05:00)

Have a Heart Day

The Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR), University of Waterloo School of Architecture in Cambridge and Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Centre (SOAHAC) will be collaborating for a community gathering and social to be hosted on the evening of February 12, 2026. The evening will include a connection to culture, song, dance, crafts, activities for kids and more! 

A woman smiling
Tuesday, March 31, 2026 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Nomad: Correcting the Narrative

Join the Office of Indigenous Relations on Tuesday March 31, 2026, for an inspiring evening of Song and Stories with Canadian award-winning Inuk singer-songwriter, Susan Aglukark.

Susan is a celebrated Canadian artist and advocate who has spent over 25 years using her music to share Indigenous stories, history, and lived experiences. Her powerful narrative will take her audience from her roots in Nunavut to becoming a household name in Canada, weaving together the themes of empowerment, cultural identity, and self-respect. 

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Friday, November 28, 2025

Indigenous Connections – Fall 2025 | Volume 17

The Legacy Edition

As we move through the fall season, a season of change and reflection unfolds across our campus. It is a time to pause and honour the stories, guidance, and dedication that shape our community; threads of experience and care that continue to inspire each of us. In this season, we are reminded that the work of connection and growth is ongoing, rooted in the contributions of those who came before and carried forward by those walking alongside us today. 

This season, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Jean Becker. As Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations, she has championed Indigenization on campus, fostered spaces for learning and connection, and supported generations of students in meaningful ways. As she steps into retirement, her influence remains deeply woven into campus life, inspiring us to carry forward her commitment, care, and leadership. 

As the leaves turn and the campus hums with the rhythm of learning, gathering, and renewal, we step forward into the season ahead, open to the stories yet to be written, the connections yet to be made, and the legacy yet to unfold. 

jean becker
Thursday, December 11, 2025 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm EST (GMT -05:00)

Open House to Celebrate Jean Becker’s Retirement

Join us in celebrating Jean Becker, Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations, for her outstanding leadership and lasting impact at the University of Waterloo. Since 2020, Jean has guided key initiatives including the Indigenous Strategic Plan and the creation of the Office of Indigenous Relations.

Come share your stories, gratitude, and warm wishes as we honour her contributions to truth and reconciliation. Tea and sweet treats will be provided. Registration is encouraged but not required.