Navigating Indigenous Membership/Citizenship Guidelines: A Workshop for UW Staff

Tuesday, April 8, 2025 3:00 pm - 4:00 pm EDT (GMT -04:00)

Session Description

In an ongoing commitment to reconciliation, the University of Waterloo recognizes the importance of acknowledging and respecting Indigenous identities. This workshop will explore the recently established Indigenous Citizenship/Membership Verification Guidelines, providing staff with a deeper understanding of the purpose and implications. We will explore how staff can collaborate with Office of Indigenous Relations to ensure a smooth and respectful verification process.

Throughout the workshop, we will emphasize the importance of acting with purpose in our interactions with Indigenous employees, students, and community members. By fostering a respectful and culturally aware environment, we can build stronger relationships and promote a more inclusive campus community. 

Learning Outcomes

  • Importance of Verification: We will examine why verifying Indigenous membership/citizenship is crucial for ensuring access to programs, services, and resources.
  • Verification Process: A clear breakdown of the verification process will be provided, outlining the steps involved and the supporting documentation required.
  • Committee's Role: The workshop will delve into the role of the Indigenous Verification Advisory Committee in overseeing the verification process and ensuring its effectiveness.

Session Structure

Lecture-style presentation with optional Q&A 

Waterloo Values

Thinking Differently; Acting with Purpose; Working Together

Presenter

Melissa Star Ireland, Director, Indigenous Relations, ​​Office of Indigenous Relations​