Tabaret Hall with orange shirt signs on the lawn

About us

The Office of Indigenous Affairs is responsible for developing the Indigenous Action Plan, which outlines the University of Ottawa’s Indigenization goals in four key areas, and is enshrined in uOttawa’s Transformation 2030 Strategic Plan.

Background

Since its establishment in 1848, the University of Ottawa has taken pride in fostering a remarkable learning environment for all students, and in providing an outstanding work environment for faculty members and support staff. As a community, the University has set ambitious goals for the future, including the development of a unique and diverse cultural environment in which students can learn, grow and excel; embodying the Canadian spirit with an openness toward the world; fostering the spirit of discovery; and nurturing the many languages that defines the country, including Indigenous languages.

In 2015, the University of Ottawa adopted the 13 Principles on Indigenous Education that were released shortly after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s final report on Canada’s residential schools. The 13 Principles on Indigenous Education were created by Universities Canada (the voice of Canadian universities) in partnership with Indigenous communities, in order to address the underrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in post-secondary institutions. In light of the 13 Principles, the University responded to a student-led request to create an Indigenous presence on the University of Ottawa website by creating an Indigenous Student Portal.

In 2017, the University of Ottawa signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at the University of Manitoba. By doing so, it joined a network of 22 other official partners who seek to preserve the past and forge new alliances to ensure that no one ever questions the legacy of the Residential School system. 

Office of Indigenous Affairs

The Office of Indigenous Affairs was established in response to consultations with Indigenous students, staff and faculty at the University of Ottawa, as well as with the larger Indigenous community located in (or in proximity to) the National Capital Region. It manages the Indigenous portfolio, which includes student support services and programming, policy and procedural developments, and implementation of the Indigenous Action Plan.

The Office of Indigenous Affairs prides itself on working closely with local Indigenous internal and external stakeholders, including the Algonquin Anishinàbeg Nation Tribal Council, Algonquin Secretariat, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation and Indigenous Education Council, members of representative First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities, as well as undergraduate and graduate student representatives.

Abstract Indigenous art

Indigenous Action Plan

The Office of Indigenous Affairs works with faculties and departments to support the incorporation of Indigenous knowledges and methodologies in teaching and research. It assists with Indigenization efforts and raising awareness about Indigenous peoples and matters at the University of Ottawa. It supports the recruitment and retention of Indigenous students as they pursue their educational goals across the campus. Combined, this work contributes to building a culturally sensitive and welcoming climate on campus.

Organizational structure

The Office of Indigenous Affairs is led by the director of Indigenous Affairs. The director works collaboratively with the academic delegate on Indigenous engagement, a role which serves as a direct link to the Office of the Provost and Vice-President, Academic Affairs. The staff of the Mashkawazìwogamig Indigenous Resource Centre report to the director of Indigenous affairs.