Advancing Indigenous Policy and Truth & Reconciliation at Western University

Written by: Grace Achonu-Johnson, Policy Analyst

Western University has identified advancing Truth and Reconciliation as a key priority, in alignment with the national Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action released in 2015. The university’s initiatives in support of its Indigenous community, namely the Office of Indigenous Initiatives, Wampum Learning Lodge, and campus-wide programming have expanded significantly over the past few years, helping to close gaps in supporting students and maintaining accountability. 

It is important that Western continues to move towards measurable, Indigenous‑led programs, resources, and policy. Western should continue to expand training and education for all students and faculty, increase the visibility and accessibility of Indigenous resources and spaces, and strengthen partnerships with relevant external organizations. 

Examining Truth & Reconciliation 

Historical Context 

September 30th marks Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, to recognize the detrimental legacy of Canada’s residential school system on Indigenous communities, which stripped away Indigenous identity, culture, and language. It is also known as Orange Shirt Day, a symbol of reconciliation and a commitment to a better future. On this day, we remember the survivors of residential schools, their families, and broader communities. It is important to acknowledge the ongoing impacts of the legacy of residential schools and recognize our individual responsibility to learn and take action toward reconciliation. 

 What is Truth and Reconciliation? 

• Truth: Acknowledging the past and confronting the history of the residential school system, recognizing the trauma experienced by Indigenous peoples, and understanding the intergenerational impacts of these policies. 

• Reconciliation: An ongoing commitment to healing relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Reconciliation involves 

Actions You Can Take Towards Truth and Reconciliation: 

• Reflect and learn about truth, reconciliation, and campus initiatives through 

• Wear orange on September 30th to show support for survivors and their families 

• Engage with Indigenous organizations at Western and in London: Wampum Learning Lounge, N'Amerind Friendship Centre, Nokee Kwe Employment and Education Centre 

Students are encouraged to take time today to learn, listen, and reflect, and to continue engaging in the work of truth and reconciliation beyond this day. 

Western University’s Current Landscape 

Institutional Commitments 

Western identifies advancing Reconciliation with Indigenous communities as a strategic priority within its People, Community and Culture framework. The Office of Indigenous Initiatives, created in 2020, leads this work and coordinates campus-wide implementation of TRC Calls to Action. 

Campus Programming and Cultural Spaces 

• The Wampum Learning Lodge hosts cultural programming, including powwow-style drumming, beading, and community culture nights, fostering intergenerational knowledge transmission. 

• Western observes the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with educational events and non-instructional time to encourage learning and reflection. 

Curriculum and Learning 

Western’s Maamwi Gizekewag Indigenous Curriculum and Learning Report (2021) recognizes a gap in TRC-relevant curriculum across disciplines and outlines steps toward Indigenizing teaching and learning. Consequently, the university should promote and revamp courses addressing Indigenous histories, contemporary issues, or Indigenous methodologies, and provide faculty with training and resources to integrate Indigenous history and practices into courses where applicable. 

Strengthening curriculums, education, and accountability will ensure Western successfully furthers efforts towards reconciliation and promotes a more equitable and inclusive environment for Indigenous students and communities.