Thank you for visiting the Office of Indigenous Relations. We work collaboratively on and off-campus to advance the goals of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action, creating a long-term vision for the University, grounded in decolonization.
"Our goals are intended to advance a strategic focus on the advocacy, commitments and actionable areas that will enable the University of Waterloo to strengthen Indigenous inclusion and leadership."
Explore our work and the ongoing Indigenous relations at the University of Waterloo
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is September 30th
Quick links for students
News and upcoming events
Events
Wiisnidaa: Winter Indigenous End of Term Feast
The Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR) invites all Indigenous students, staff, and faculty to a free gala-style appreciation dinner. Bring your appetite and come as you are—no formal dress required. Vegan and gluten-free options will be available, and guests may bring a +1 or children. Join us for an evening of good food, laughter, and fellowship.
Stories That Carry Us: Honouring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Through Advocacy and Education
On May 5th, the Office of Indigenous Relations (OIR) and the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO) will host Red Dress Day to honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirit People, featuring a presentation by Tamara Bernard and a ceremonial dress-hanging event by Elder Myeengun Henry.
News
Indigenous Connections - Winter 2026 | Volume 18
The Walking Together Edition
As we are halfway through the winter season, we’re reminded of the teachings this time of year carries. Winter invites us to slow our pace, to rest our spirits, and to reflect on the paths we’ve walked. Mother Earth lies tucked beneath a shimmering blanket of snow, taking her own time to breathe and restore. Following her example, we gather with our families, friends, and communities, sharing stories, laughter, and the seeds of ideas that will guide us into the warmer months ahead.
In that same spirit of connection and renewal, we’re excited to share this month’s updates, opportunities, upcoming events, and highlights from recent gatherings that have brought us together.
Announcing the Annual Momentum Report 2024-2025
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.
Giving history a voice
New research at the University of Waterloo is centring Haudenosaunee voices in documenting the 1988 repatriation of eleven wampum belts to the Haudenosaunee Confederacy. Led by Tuscarora scholar Savannah Sloat and historian Dr. Talena Atfield, the project gathers first-hand community accounts to highlight wampum as living agreements tied to law, governance, and sovereignty.
Cultural connection key to healthy aging for Indigenous elders
PhD student Dale Bellaire’s research explores how culturally grounded connections can support the well-being of Indigenous Elders living in urban long-term care. Guided by a Medicine Wheel framework, her work emphasizes holistic health and centres Elders as collaborators in shaping meaningful, land-informed spaces and activities. The research contributes to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and aims to strengthen identity, belonging, and cultural resurgence for Indigenous older adults.
Indigenous Connections – Fall 2025 | Volume 17
The Legacy Edition
As we move through the fall season, a season of change and reflection unfolds across our campus. It is a time to pause and honour the stories, guidance, and dedication that shape our community; threads of experience and care that continue to inspire each of us. In this season, we are reminded that the work of connection and growth is ongoing, rooted in the contributions of those who came before and carried forward by those walking alongside us today.
This season, we celebrate the extraordinary contributions of Jean Becker. As Associate Vice-President, Indigenous Relations, she has championed Indigenization on campus, fostered spaces for learning and connection, and supported generations of students in meaningful ways. As she steps into retirement, her influence remains deeply woven into campus life, inspiring us to carry forward her commitment, care, and leadership.
As the leaves turn and the campus hums with the rhythm of learning, gathering, and renewal, we step forward into the season ahead, open to the stories yet to be written, the connections yet to be made, and the legacy yet to unfold.
Indigenous Connections –Summer 2025| Volume 16
The Sacred Bundle Edition
As summer’s light stretches long across the days, we are reminded of the sacred bundle we carry together—a gathering of teachings, stories, and responsibilities passed gently from hand to hand, from generation to generation. Within it rests strength, resilience, wisdom and hope to guide us forward.
This season, our bundle feels especially alive. It holds the songs and dances that will rise at the annual Gidinawendamin/Ska’nikú•lát Pow Wow, where community gathers in celebration of culture, kinship and joy. It holds the solemn weight of September 30, the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, when we pause to honour Survivors of residential school, remember the children who never returned home and stand in solidarity with families and communities in healing. Each season, the bundle grows—richer with renewal, rooted teachings and community care. It reminds us that Indigenization is a living journey, always adapting and flourishing.
As we enjoy the remainder of summer and move towards fall, may we carry this sacred bundle with gratitude. Within it lives connection, renewal, and the promise of transformation—guiding us forward, together.