Water is not just a resource — it is sacred. It is our first medicine, as we are all born of water. It connects us to the land, to the ancestors, and to future generations. In Indigenous worldviews, water is a living relative that must be treated with reverence.
Incoming first-year students who complete the Indigenous citizenship/membership verification process are now eligible for the First Year Residence Guarantee Application, with the $500 deposit waived for those choosing to live on campus in September.
From welcoming new Indigenous staff to launching a powerful new logo, along with embracing Indigenous storytelling, this season brought moments of integration and connection. As we reflect on the past and look towards the future, we honour Indigenous resilience, cultures, and growth. Indigenization is not just about representation – it is about incorporating Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and perspectives into the structure of our institutions. The journey forward is shaped by our collective actions and shared stories – each one a step toward a stronger, more inclusive community. There were many special milestones and moments for Indigenization on campus this season and we are looking forward for many more to come in the future.
A special celebration took place in the Health Services building on Monday, February 10, 2025, to warmly welcome two new Indigenous staff members to Waterloo: Dr. Sarah Connors, Indigenous Naturopath and Brad LeBarron, Indigenous Student Wellness Navigator.
The Office of Indigenous Relations and Campus Wellness warmly welcome Indigenous Naturopath Dr. Sarah Connors!
Join us for a hybrid event in celebration of National Indigenous Languages Day, focused on Haudenosaunee language revitalization! This event, hosted by the University of Waterloo and the Office of Indigenous Relations, will feature Dr. Talena Atfield, Dakota Rohrer, and Dr. Sara General, who are all contributing to the vital work of preserving and revitalizing Haudenosaunee languages.
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 13, 2025. The evening will include a connection to culture, song, dance, crafts, activities for kids and more!
Join us in celebrating the 4th anniversary of the Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR) at the University of Waterloo! All are welcome for the afternoon to connect with the OIR team and learn more about our mission, initiatives, and contributions to supporting Indigenous students, faculty, staff and alumni fostering greater awareness and understanding of Indigenous issues and culture on campus.
This is a three-part workshop that journeys through First Nations, Inuit, and Métis relations with settlers. As the title indicates, you don't know what you don't know so everyone is welcome. You will be introduced to the concept of Miskasowin (wholistic self-evaluation) that will define content, context, and relationship promoting further action, accountability, and responsibilities as a treaty person in this land now known as Canada. This is an online, 3-hour workshop, in a small-group setting.
Hosted by the Office of Indigenous Relations, facilitated by Ela Smith.
In a move designed to enhance support and foster a cohesive environment for Indigenous students across campus, the Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR) and the Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre (WISC) would like to jointly announce the unification of our offices.