June is National Indigenous History Month, an opportunity for the York University community to recognize and celebrate the histories, cultures, languages and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and to reflect on our shared responsibility to advance reconciliation.
This year, York continues to deepen its commitment through initiatives that centre Indigenous presence and knowledges across our campuses. On June 1 at 2 p.m., and in celebration of the start of National Indigenous History Month, community members are invited to attend the unveiling of the Moccasin Identifier Project installation at the York University subway station (Keele Campus). This installation honours the lives of Indigenous children who did not return home from residential schools and creates space for remembrance, reflection and learning. All are welcome to attend.
This important moment reflects York’s approach to placemaking as reconciliation – acknowledging and integrating Indigenous histories and perspectives in the everyday spaces where our community gathers, learns and moves. It is part of a broader effort to re-centre reconciliation as a shared, lived responsibility across the University and in ways that encourage dialogue and belonging.
York’s work is further strengthened by the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in March 2026 with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, on whose traditional territory the Keele Campus is located. The MOU affirms our commitment to building a respectful, collaborative and reciprocal relationship through shared initiatives in education, research and community engagement.
It is essential that non-Indigenous members of our community make ongoing efforts to learn about Indigenous histories, cultures and protocols. Ongoing learning can be supported through resources on Indigenous Presence at York, the University’s Indigenous Framework and Six-Year Review, and the Centre for Indigenous Student Services. In addition, the Centre for Indigenous Knowledges and Languages brings together Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers to advance interdisciplinary Indigenous and decolonizing scholarship on Indigenous knowledges, languages, practices and ways of being.
Throughout June, students, staff and faculty are encouraged to engage in events and learning opportunities and to explore resources available on the Indigenous History Month website. The month offers an important opportunity to reflect on how our individual and collective actions can contribute to reconciliation, particularly around National Indigenous People’s Day, June 21.
Community members are also reminded to update the University’s current land acknowledgment in all communications, including websites, email signatures, presentations and events. Using the updated acknowledgment reflects respect for Indigenous Nations and alignment with York’s evolving relationships and commitments.
Reconciliation is an ongoing process that requires sustained action, humility and care. National Indigenous History Month offers an opportunity for all of us to listen, learn and reaffirm our shared path forward.
Thank you. Merci. Miigwech.
Parissa Safai
Interim Vice-President Equity, People and Culture