In an effort to support Indigenous students, Queen's University has launched the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, to bring reconciliation into the very fabric of university life. The office will help build community and share Indigenous ways of knowing and being at Queen's.

Virtual elder meet & greets

Every other Friday, students will have the chance to meet with Wendy Phillips, Elder in Residence, and Allen Doxtator, Cultural Advisor. These experts share their perspectives on Indigenous ways of knowing, encourage university-wide collaboration, and take questions.

Register for a virtual elder meet & greet.

Indigenous Initiatives Visitor Fund

This program was developed to assist Queen's faculty with broadening student perspectives around reconciliation and Indigenous perspectives. The fund supports unique guest speakers who share their diverse viewpoints and build relationships among students, faculty, the university, and the community itself.

The fund also supports collaborations in support of Indigenous students, so new projects and research opportunities are always on the horizon.

Indigenous cultural services

Both the Cultural Advisor and Elder in Residence are available for one-on-one meetings, guest lectures, workshops, presentations, and more. An easy-to-use online form lets Queen's instructors request Indigenous cultural services, including everything from a smudging ceremony to advice and guidance.

The Office of Indigenous Initiatives at Queen's University is a great step towards reconciliation with Canada's Indigenous community. Bringing Indigenous perspectives onto campus builds relationships and breaks down barriers of access to education.

Kudos to Queen's University for taking such a dramatic and important step in support of Indigenous Canadians.

Learn more about the importance of Indigenous studies in this video featuring Kanonhsyonne-Janice Hill.