Events and gatherings are a way for us to connect, whether virtually or in-person
They provide space and opportunity to learn and reflect together, to share, and to move together toward the goals of reconciliation. We look forward to welcoming you soon.
We have previous, current, and upcoming events featured here. If you know of an event you would like us to highlight, please let us know by emailing indigenousrelations@uwaterloo.ca
Upcoming Events and Workshops
Events
Eagle Staff Ceremony
The University of Waterloo is honoured to welcome an Eagle Staff to our institution. Indigenous Knowledge Keeper Myeengun Henry will introduce this sacred item, on behalf of the UWaterloo Indigenous campus community.
An Eagle Staff is an important element of the Indigenous relationship to mother earth and those that have protected it. The Staff reflects the wisdom, strength, and honour of those that carry it in representation of Nations across Turtle Island.
This Eagle Staff will be present at ceremonies and celebrations, such as convocation, representing University of Waterloo First Nations, Métis and Inuit community members, their traditions, cultures, and strengths.
Through the introduction of the Eagle Staff, the University of Waterloo honours the responsibility to take on Indigenous perspectives, ensuring that they are reflected in the governance, structure, and intent of the University. A symbol of Indigenous acknowledgement, the Eagle Staff will serve as a beacon of reconciliation throughout our shared future.
Location: Federation Hall
Date: Monday, March 27, 2023
Time: 10:00 a.m.
A sunrise ceremony will take place at 7:00 a.m. outside of Federation Hall
The entire university community is invited to participate in this meaningful ceremony as we welcome the Eagle Staff.
The ceremony is expected to take up to 90 minutes, including an opportunity for refreshments and community building.
To register, please visit:
Workshops
We are happy to offer a variety of workshops that explore Indigenous content. All are welcome! Check back often to see which workshops are available.
For concerns, questions and comments please email us at indigenousrelations@uwaterloo.ca.
Métis 101
Presentation on Métis culture and history, including the ethnogenesis of the Métis, and their unique and rich culture and language. Facilitated by Jennifer Parkinson, his workshop addresses questions such as; "Who are the Métis?" "Why did they disappear in history?" "Where are they today?"
Jennifer Parkinson was elected as President of Grand River Métis Council, Métis Nation of Ontario in 2014. Jennifer started on Council in 2011 as the interim Chair, then elected to the Chair position in 2012. Since 2010, Jennifer has expanded and shared her knowledge with thousands of children each year by going into schools, colleges and universities. Today, Jennifer is very active politically, meeting with various proponents, government officials and government ministries, all in the pursuit of solidifying Métis citizens’ rights in Canada. Jennifer continues to enjoy her journey and support the Métis Nation.
Online, 2-hour workshop in a small group setting. Workshop is offered once each term.
For available dates and workshops, please visit: https://bit.ly/3HL9tpi
You Don't Know What You Don't Know Pt.1 & 2
This is a two-part online workshop that journeys through First Nations, Inuit, and Metis 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. For the safety and comfort of participants, this workshop will not be recorded. Webcams are expected to be left on during the workshop, to promote connectivity.
Learning Objectives:
- Deconstruct language and discuss why identity and labels are different for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples.
- Unlearning historic and current realities for First Nations, Metis and Inuit peoples in the land now known as Canada and how the resulting cultural genocide:
- Affects current and future generations of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples
- Affects how First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples are received and treated in institutions, including post-secondary institution
- Increase understanding of Indigenous ways of knowing
- Increase awareness of local urban First Nations, Metis, and Inuit communities
- Promote self-reflection to further an understanding of the impacts of colonization, racism, and implicit bias experienced by First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples
Online, 3-hour workshop, in a small-group setting. Workshop is offered once each term. Part 1 is a prerequisite for part 2.
For available dates and workshops, please visit: https://bit.ly/3HL9tpi