Building more just and inclusive societies starts with promoting equity, diversity and inclusivity, addressing racism and marginalization, and building new relationships with Indigenous communities. There's so much work to be done — and the Faculty of Arts & Science is relying on its exceptional faculty, engaged students and generous donors to galvanize this initiative.
How It Started
In September 1994, the first students entered the Aboriginal studies minor program — renamed the Indigenous studies program in 2016 — at the University of Toronto. Since its launch, this interdisciplinary program has been dedicated to the re-conceptualization of knowledge.
In February 1994, U of T launched the Aboriginal studies minor program with a week of events celebrating Indigenous cultures. Photo credit: The Varsity.
How It's Going
What began as a small minor program offering two courses has grown into a program that offers all three degree types: specialist, major and minor. Since the beginning, language courses have played an integral role in the Indigenous studies program, which now offers courses in Anishinaabemowin and Kanienskéha-Mohawk.
The Turtle Lounge at the Centre for Indigenous Studies.
Where We're Headed
For more than 25 years, the Centre for Indigenous Studies has been dedicated to the scholarly study and research of the priorities and aspirations of Indigenous Peoples in Canada and around the world. The Faculty of Arts & Science is committed to amplifying the centre's efforts by establishing a new Indigenous Studies Institute to support multidisciplinary research, community partnerships, language instruction and experiential land-based learning. The institute will be a hub for Indigenous studies in Canada and a critical milestone for truth and reconciliation.