Claudette Commanda speaking at a Truth and Reconciliation event, addressing the audience with a microphone.

Indigenization on campus

The University of Ottawa acknowledges and honours that our campus sits on the traditional, unceded territory of the Omamìwìnini Anishnàbeg (Algonquin) and is committed to building meaningful relationships with neighbouring Algonquin communities and with Indigenous peoples throughout the region and across Canada. Reconciliation and decolonization work are a priority and are being conducted in faculties, departments, and services across campus in line with the Indigenous Action Plan.

Indigenous Action Plan

The Indigenous Action Plan outlines four thematic hoops that aim to mobilize the University community in creating an environment that reflects, enhances, includes, and supports Indigenous cultures and peoples on campus. It is integrated into More Connected, the fourth pillar of our strategic plan, Transformation 2030. 

The University has also adopted the 13 Principles on Indigenous Education and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. We currently have five academic programs with an Indigenous focus, as well as the Institute for Indigenous Research and Studies, three mentorship programs, and focused admission processes for Indigenous students in the faculties of Law, Medicine, and Education.  

Claudette Commanda

Chancellor

Claudette Commanda, an Algonquin Anishinabe from Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg First Nation in Quebec and a University of Ottawa graduate, was appointed chancellor of the University November 9, 2022. 

Person holding beaded friendship belts.

Indigenous affirmation

The indigenous affirmation is a special acknowledgment of the Algonquin nation as well as the rich and diverse Indigenous population in Ottawa. 

Read the indigenous affirmation

Indigenous Affairs

Our uOttawa Indigenous Affairs team, led by the Director of Indigenous Affairs, is dedicated to working in close partnership with faculties, services, and Indigenous communities to ensure that the University of Ottawa engages in ongoing dialogue and thoughtful reflection so that we carry out our actions with understanding and integrity. Indigenous Affairs aspires to increase visibility and awareness of Indigenous culture on campus to ensure that the landscape of the University of Ottawa reflects its vibrant, active, and diverse Indigenous community. 

Mashkawazìwogamig: Indigenous Resource Centre

Mashkawazìwogamig: Indigenous Resource Centre  provides Indigenous students with the support, tools, and resources they need to succeed at University. The Centre first opened in 1997 and in 2018, the Kitigan Zibi Elders Circle gifted the Centre with a new name: Mashkawazìwogamig (Place of Strength). 

Indigenous Affirmation

We pay respect to the Algonquin people, who are the traditional guardians of this land. We acknowledge their longstanding relationship with this territory, which remains unceded. 

We pay respect to all Indigenous people in this region, from all nations across Canada, who call Ottawa home. 

We acknowledge the traditional knowledge keepers, both young and old. And we honour their courageous leaders: past, present, and future. 

Learn more about the Indigenous Affirmation.