As we approach Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30, I want to take a moment to reflect on the significance of this important day and how we can each contribute to the ongoing journey towards reconciliation.
Truth and Reconciliation Day is a solemn occasion for us to reflect upon and learn about the profound impacts of colonization and assimilation on Indigenous communities. It is a time to deepen our understanding of these historical injustices and to reaffirm our commitment to the reconciliation process.
In observance of National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, VIU will close for regular operations and will not hold classes on Monday, September 30. As we are not on campus many of us will wear orange on September 27 to signal that we are remembering, honouring, and learning.
The practice of wearing orange began in 2013 as a tribute to the experiences and suffering of Indigenous children who were forced into residential schools. It originated from the story of Phyllis Webstad, who was six years old when her shiny new orange shirt—a gift from her grandmother—was taken from her on her first day at residential school on BC’s Dog Creek reserve. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the commitment embodied in the words “every child matters.”
At VIU, we are dedicated to the path of reconciliation, acknowledging our role in historical systems that impeded Indigenous sovereignty and well-being. It is our obligation to decolonize our systems and ways of thinking, which involves critically examining and dismantling the entrenched structures and biases that perpetuate colonial ideologies. This involves challenging and transforming our institutional practices, policies, and perspectives to ensure they are inclusive, equitable, and respectful of Indigenous ways of knowing and being. By doing so, we can create an environment that not only acknowledges historical injustices but actively works towards rectifying them. Our 2021-26 Strategic Plan, People, Place, Potential, underscores our commitment to supporting Indigenous Peoples and upholding the BC Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, aligned with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
We are proud of our progress but recognize there is much more to be done. VIU is focused on enhancing our partnerships with Indigenous communities, honouring Indigenous students, employees, and communities, and deepening our understanding of Indigenous Knowledges. Through our Strategic Enrolment Management (SEM) Plan and in line with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) of Canada’s Calls to Action, we aim to increase access to education for Indigenous learners.
The recent expansion and re-opening of Shq'apthut, A Gathering Place, on September 19 – which was marked by a ceremonial event with knowledge keepers sharing stories and teachings – is a recent example of how we are addressing the TRC’s Calls to Action directly into campus initiatives.
Today, on our Cowichan campus, community members attended a variety of meaningful activities and events, followed by a communal feast. Feasting together is a cultural practice that fosters healing and learning.
Tomorrow, on our Nanaimo campus, we will observe Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day through a commemoration event that includes a vigil walk; ceremony with education and reflection; followed by soup, bannock, and cookies.
On September 30, in an act of community-building, community members at the tiwšɛmawtxʷ campus are asked to participate in the event being hosted by the Tla’amin Nation, the City of Powell River and the qathet Regional District to honour the children who never returned home and Survivors of residential schools as well as their families and communities.
I invite you to participate in one of the many events taking place on our campuses as we work together to build a more inclusive and informed community.
To further our collective education and growth throughout the year, we are also co-hosting an Indigenous Speaker Series with CBC in November to continue learning from Indigenous voices and perspectives. Please keep an eye on your inboxes for more information.
Our shared commitment to deepening our understanding will help guide our actions toward a more equitable and just future. Let us honor Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day by reflecting on our roles in this journey and continuing our efforts toward meaningful change.
Thank you for your attention and participation in this crucial work.
Sincerely,
Deborah Saucier Ph.D.
President and Vice-Chancellor
