Indigenous Connections - Winter 2026 | Volume 18

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.  

For future editions, we invite stories, not just statistics. Sharing these stories strengthens accountability while recognizing and celebrating the work of Indigenous students, staff, faculty, community partners, and the allies working alongside them. This is about visibility, respect, relationships, and acknowledgment.  

Our Momentum Report encourages the university to pause, reflect, celebrate, and recommit—grounding institutional change in relationships, accountability, and ongoing action rather than performative statements.  

If you would like your work to be included in a future report, please reach out to the Office of Indigenous Relations at indigenousrelations@uwaterloo.ca.  

Read the full report here 

Velocity has introduced Many Hearts, One Mind, a new mural by Indigenous artist Alanah Astehtsi Otsistohkwa (Morningstar) Jewell. The artwork highlights the connection between the land, community, and the spirit of innovation that defines Velocity.  

Unveiled during a smudging ceremony on January 20, the mural reflects Waterloo’s ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation and was created in collaboration with the Office of Indigenous Relations 

Read the full story here 

The University of Waterloo has recently approved the Campus Plan. The Campus Plan is a long-term, flexible framework designed to guide the development of the campus’s physical spaces, infrastructure, and community connections, emphasizing sustainability, inclusivity, innovation, and reconciliation. Central to the plan is the Two Row Path, a north-south campus walkway that represents mutual respect, partnership, and shared stewardship.  The Plan envisions Indigenous-led design elements, including sculptural markers, native plantings, and interpretive signage, fostering cultural learning and reconciliation. 

The Plan also includes the Healing Forest, a contemplative space dedicated to reconciliation, healing, and education, forming part of a national network of Healing Forests. Adjacent to this area, a gathering structure rooted in Indigenous iconography is envisioned for teaching, reflection, and renewal, with design elements referencing traditional sweat lodges and sacred cardinal directions. The Environmental Reserve will host Kiinomaage-Aki (Land of Knowledge), an outdoor learning and ceremonial space for land-based learning and Indigenous ways of knowing. This area will feature teaching gardens, a ceremonial fire pit, learning lodges, and a sweat lodge, providing opportunities for cultural expression and ecological restoration. 

These Indigenous elements of the Plan are vital for advancing reconciliation and fostering inclusivity. They create spaces for cultural expression, land-based learning, and community building, while embedding Indigenous knowledge into the campus’s ecological and educational frameworks.  By co-designing these spaces with Indigenous communities, the University of Waterloo demonstrates its commitment to honoring Indigenous cultures, promoting sustainability, and strengthening relationships with local Indigenous communities. 

On February 13, 2026, the University of Waterloo, the Waterloo School of Architecture in Cambridge, the Southwest Ontario Aboriginal Health Access Centre, and local community members gathered in a spirit of unity to mark Have a Heart Day.  Held annually, Have a Heart Day is part of a national movement launched by the First Nations Child & Family Caring Society to raise awareness about equity, respect, and justice for Indigenous children and families. This year’s gathering continued that important work, bringing together students, families, and community members for an evening of culture, connection, and collective care. 

The event featured powerful drumming and singing led by Spirit Nation, an Indigenous youth group, along with Aki Ogichidaa Kwewak N’Gamowak. Their songs filled the space with energy and intention, grounding the evening in tradition and community strength. 

Community members and students of all ages joined in crafting activities, dancing, learning, and sharing. The chance to witness youth step forward with leadership and cultural pride was a highlight, reminding attendees of the heart of the movement: supporting and uplifting Indigenous children and families. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who joined us—students, families, faculty, staff, and community partners—who stood with First Nation, Métis, and Inuit families on this meaningful day. 

Have a Heart Day has become a cherished annual tradition in our community, and we are committed to continuing to grow this event and deepen its impact. We look forward to welcoming even more people next year as we continue learning, connecting, and working together toward equity and justice for Indigenous children and families. 

The Ogimaa Indigenous Graduate Scholarship awards $10,000 annually to support an Indigenous student enrolled full‑time in any graduate program at the University of Waterloo or its affiliated institutions. Applicants must complete the Indigenous verification process through the Office of Indigenous Relations. 

Selection is based on academic excellence, contributions to Indigenous communities, and a personal statement on the impact of this award. 

Named in honour of Dr. Vivek Goel, who received the name Ogimaa (“leader”) from Elder Myeengun Henry in 2022, this scholarship aims to uplift and empower emerging Indigenous leaders. 

Deadline: April 1, 2026 

To apply, email indigenousrelations@uwaterloo.ca for the application form.