Welcome to the 2022 Truth and Reconciliation Edition!
On September 30, 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.
In this Issue:
Staff Congratulations
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.
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)!
Upcoming Events
University of Waterloo Indigenous Commitment Ceremony
September 22
On September 22, 2022, the Indigenous peoples of the University of Waterloo will ask Vivek Goel, President and vice-chancellor, for a full commitment to reconciliation, Indigenization, and decolonization at the institution.
The ceremony will commence with a Sunrise Ceremony at 7:00 a.m. at the Ceremonial Fire Grounds at United College. A Cedar Circle is scheduled to start,, later that same day, at 10:30 a.m. at B.C. Matthews Hall (BMH) green, which will be immediately followed by a Pipe Ceremony and a traditional feast. The entire University community is welcome to attend and observe all of the ceremonies.
Former Chief, Elder and Indigenous Knowledge Keeper, Myeengun Henry, who works with the Faculty of Health, says the purpose of the Indigenous Commitment ceremony is for the University of Waterloo to publicly acknowledge the harm that colonization has caused to Indigenous peoples and commit to meaningful and respectful work towards being an ally to the process of reclaiming Indigenous identity and culture, and decolonization.
You Don't Know What You Don't Know Part 1
September 23
This is a two-part 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. This is an online, 3-hour workshop, in a small-group setting.
Learning Objectives:
- Deconstruct language and discuss why identity and labels are different for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples.
- Unlearning historic and current realities forFirst 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 andtreated in institutions, including post-secondary institution
- Increase understanding ofIndigenous 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
Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre 19th Annual Traditional Pow-wow
September 24
Please join us at Waterloo Park for this celebration of Indigenous culture and beauty. Witness the good medicine of dancing, drumming and singing, visit the vendors, and participate in an intertribal dance! Grounds open at 10:00 AM with Grand Entry at 12:00 PM!
All are welcome!
Indigenous Speakers Series presents Jani Lauzon and Kaitlyn Riordan
September 26
The Indigenous Speakers Series proudly presents Jani Lauzon, director and playwright, and Kaitlyn Riordan, playwright, whose co-created play 1939 is running at the Stratford Festival this season.
Lauzon and Riordan will speak to their unique process of engaging community and support from Elders and Knowledge Keepers, with a lens to the work of Indigenous artists and activists over the last 100 years, used to develop 1939.
Beaders and Readers
September 27
Thank you to Dr. Talena Atfield for hosting Beaders and Readers, the last Tuesday of every month. This month, on Tuesday September 27, 6pm-9pm come spend some time in HH117 for beading, reading discussions and laughs!
Dibaajimowin: Stories from this Land Official Opening
September 27
Please join us to celebrate the opening of Dibaajimowin | Stories from this Land.
Curated by Emma Rain Smith, this exhibition highlights Indigenous contributions to the history of this land, often overlooked in favour of the well-established settler narrative. However, our stories do not exist independently - rather they live parallel to each other.
1939 at the Stratford Festival
September 28
The matinee showing of 1939 will include a section of seats held at a special price for Indigenous students of the University of Waterloo. Please email indigenousrelations@uwaterloo.ca to inquire about tickets and transportation.
Indigenous Reading Group featuring Kaandossiwin: How we Come to Know by Dr. Kathleen Absolon
September 29
For more information, please contact Sara Anderson at sara.anderson@uwaterloo.ca or Leslie Wexler at leslie.wexler@uwaterloo.ca. They will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the September meeting.
Kitchener Community Truth and Reconciliation Walk
September 30
Come join us for our Every Child Matters walk on September 30th. Walk begins at 10am!
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30
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 B.C Matthews Hall (BMH) Green.
Territorial Acknowledgement
As the Canadian Association of University Teachers described in their guide to territorial acknowledgment for Canadian universities, “[…] acknowledging territory is only the beginning of cultivating strong relationships with the First Peoples of Canada."
The University of Waterloo is located on the Haldimand Tract and learning the history of this Treaty is an important way to not only connect the past with the present, but also provides space and time to reflect on the ways in which we are all treaty people.
Learn more about the Haldimand Tract with Phil Monture, who is Mohawk from the Six Nations of the Grand River. From 1975 to July 2002, Phil was the Director of the Land Claims Research Office at the Six Nations of the Grand River. Phil's video lecture was recorded as part of Treaties Week 2020.
Visit the Indigenous Relations Territorial Acknowledgement resource page to learn more about creating your own acknowledgement.