Today The University of Winnipeg joined with partners from Manitoba’s other post-secondary institutions and the Manitoba School Boards Association to sign the historic Manitoba Indigenous Education Blueprint. The document commits the signatories to respond to the Calls to Action issued this year by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, in ways that include integrating Indigenous knowledge into the academy, supporting Indigenous learners and increasing post-secondary participation and success rates for Indigenous students. You can read more details about the Manitoba Indigenous Education Blueprint here.
Wab Kinew speaks at the Manitoba Indigenous Education Blueprint signing
“We are proud to make this commitment alongside our colleagues, which is very much in keeping with The University of Winnipeg’s ongoing recognition of our responsibility to contribute to reconciliation through education,” said Dr. Annette Trimbee, UWinnipeg’s President and Vice-Chancellor. “We are also proud of the steps we’ve taken in this spirit so far at UWinnipeg, most recently through the passing of the Indigenous course requirement. But, we know we have more to do and are pleased we will have the support of the full network of Manitoba’s post-secondary institutions with work that will further distinguish this province for its excellence in Indigenous scholarship.”
The Blueprint signing at Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge was co-hosted by UWinnipeg’s Associate Vice-President of Indigenous Affairs Wab Kinew, who said, “The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada provided us with a framework that is as powerful as those who demonstrate the willingness to act on it. UWinnipeg and our partners from across the province are able to follow through meaningfully, exercising influence in a way that will ensure all students are better served by their education going forward.”
Sadie-Phoenix Lavoie, Female Co-President of UWinnipeg’s Aboriginal Student Council
“This is a step forward for educators in creating engaged, informed citizens, who know about Indigenous peoples today. I’m really happy the others schools recognize the importance of coming together to take this step toward reconciliation and truth,” said Sadie-Phoenix Lavoie, Female Co-President of UWinnipeg’s Aboriginal Student Council, who spoke at the signing. “It will also help all the partners to bring forth a safe learning environment for Indigenous students, to welcome them, and it will help schools retain them as students because they know they are respected.”
MEDIA CONTACT
Megan Benedictson, Communications Officer, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7129, E: me.benedictson@uwinnipeg.ca
