Indigenous presence is woven throughout the University community and campuses. We will elevate and embed Indigenous presence at York as one way we nurture an environment where Indigenous community members can find a sense of connection, inclusion, well-being and belonging. This is a shared responsibility with the broader university community and administration.
Moccasin Identifier Project installation
Join us on June 1st as York University is unveiling The Moccasin Identifier Project installation on the Keele campus. This a tri-campus initiative, led by the Office of Indigenous Initiatives supported through the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. Intentionally designed moccasin symbols serve markers of Indigenous presence, helping to create spaces that reflect Indigenous identity, culture, and belonging. By strengthening Indigenous visibility, the project realizes a key deliverable within the MOU that was signed March of this year to further support Indigenous students and communities while advancing York’s commitments to reconciliation and inclusion.
Illuminating Indigenous Presence
This video of a presentation from the DEDI Symposium (Sept. 2024) focuses on the work of Indigenous students, faculty and staff. As Indigenous people we have always had our own ways of making and sharing Knowledge. Yet Institutions of formal schooling have often failed to recognize Indigenous approaches to teaching, learning and research. In this presentation we will illuminate the ways in which Indigenous people are transforming the university and through their actions creating spaces and places of Indigenous brilliance.
Indigenous at York University
The Indigenous Framework grew from years of collaboration and past efforts.
Centre for Indigenous Student Services
The Centre for Indigenous Student Services (CISS) supports Indigenous students at York with culturally appropriate programming and support services. CISS also houses portions of the York art collection with creations by Indigenous artists.
Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Languages
The Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Languages (CIKL) is an interdisciplinary research centre that supports Indigenous and decolonizing scholarship. Bringing together Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers, we aim to facilitate knowledge that re-centres Indigenous knowledges, languages, practices and ways of being.
Skennen’kó:wa Gamig
Skennen’kó:wa Gamig, the House of Great Peace, is a welcoming and safe space for Indigenous community members at York. Its name comes from both Mohawk and Anishnabe languages bringing together two of the confederacies that uphold and engage in the Dish with One Spoon Wampum territory.
Ahqahizu
Ahqahizu is the first Indigenous addition to York University’s public art collection and is permanently displayed at the entrance to York Lions Stadium.
Indigenous Art
Explore the University’s Collection, where many Indigenous works of art are housed.