Maureen Johns , Executive Lead , Indigenization

Obstacles are only hills to climb over or around . There are no obstacles to achieve Indigenization goals on campus except for those that exist in people ’ s hearts and minds . I am so honored to be able to contribute to the University of Regina ’ s strategic vision in support of Indigenization . The President ’ s office has made it very clear that Indigenization is an important element of our university ’ s Strategic Plan . “ Our Work , Our People , Our Communities ” identifies the need to build long-term relationships with Métis and First Nation peoples , signalling an era of inclusion and tranformational change .

Are you involved in any

The Faculty of Education has always been a leader in supporting Indigenization . Pedagogy , research , and community engagement are increasingly being focused on with both a critical and creative lens . Undergraduate and graduate programs delivered off-campus have produced visionary educators across Saskatchewan and indeed , across Canada . We are now starting to see the legacy of teachers in classrooms who believe in social justice : What could be more important to transformational change than this kind of commitment ? The

presence of Indigenous scholars , committed Faculty leadership and supporters has allowed the Faculty of Education to be involved in setting a standard for Indigenous education . I have enjoyed my association with the Faculty of Education , both as a student and in my current position , from the Dean ’ s office , to the Faculty and staff , and to the students I have been involved with through class presentations and consultations . I admire the tenacity of the people at the Faculty of Education for bringing de-colonization , through Indigenization , to the forefront .

The Ojibway people ’ s language has a term for the plurality of truth ; so perceptions about where we are now in regard to Indigenization , where we need to go , and how soon we need to get there are as diverse as the perspectives of the people who make up the University of Regina community . Although current efforts to Indigenize are important , it is critical to remember the foundational work done by those who have walked this path before us . We have a foundation of recognition of Aboriginal , Treaty , and Indigenous rights from which to

build a future where Indigenization achieves its full potential . We need to go there right now , each of us in our diverse roles and with renewed commitment — the current and future generations can ’ t wait a moment longer .

What recommendations can you

Indigenization is everyone ’ s business and must be foundationally integrated within and across all education systems . Indigenous peoples must have an equitable voice in charting the progress of the Indigenization journey . Imperatives for Indigenization are historical — there is no where else in the world where North American Indigenous knowledge can be protected ; economic — we either invest in education now or lose out on the potential of Indigenous children and youth forever ; and moral — we support Indigenization because quite simply , it is the right thing to do . Approach Indigenization holistically , using your mental , emotional , physical , and spiritual capacities will not only benefit Indigenization , but it will benefit you as well .

Photo Credit : Herman Michell