There are currently five faculty academic programs with an Indigenous focus, plus the Institute for Indigenous Research and Studies. As well, there are three mentorship programs, as well as focused admission processes for Indigenous students in the faculties of Law, Medicine and Education.
Walk through the campus and you’ll see the growing presence of Indigenous traditional knowledge, culture and art.
Dedicated Indigenous cultural places on Campus: Mashkawazìwogamig Indigenous Resource Centre and Nidjìnawendàganag Living and Learning Community
The Mashkawazìwogamig Indigenous Resource Centre is more than just a physical space. It’s a place where Indigenous students, professors and staff can find a sense of belonging. First Nations, Métis and Inuit students have access to cultural, academic and social events and services. The centre offers academic support enhanced by traditional Indigenous community figures and culture, including the presence of elders and traditional knowledge keepers.
The residence-based Nidjìnawendàganag (All My Relations) Living and Learning Community (LLC) further exemplifies uOttawa’s commitment to Indigenous students. This space is dedicated to fostering a sense of culture, kinship, and community, providing a supportive environment where Indigenous students can thrive academically and personally. LLC residents can apply for Living Learning Community Student Assistance Fund awards. Worth $9,000, they cover part of the cost of residence and a meal plan on the floor designated for the Nidjìnawendàganag LLC.
The Student Health and Wellness Centre in the Minto Sports Complex has an Indigenous wellness room and an Indigenous wellness counsellor available two days a week for Indigenous students.
Gardens of knowledge: Celebrating Indigenous culture and traditions
At the physical heart of main campus, in front of the Social Sciences Building, is the Indigenous Garden, a living classroom and a tribute to the Algonquin Anishinàbeg Nation. Plants are indigenous to the National Capital Region and traditionally used as medicines by Indigenous nations. The garden symbolizes the growing relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Equally inspiring is the Spirit Garden on the third floor of Fauteux Hall’s atrium terrace. Plants honour Indigenous community members who work and study at Fauteux. The University community can access knowledge about traditional Indigenous medicine and traditional knowledge.
Art and culture: Weaving Indigenous stories into campus life
Art and culture are intricately woven into the fabric of uOttawa’s campus, with significant installations speak to the heart of reconciliation with Indigenous people. In October 2019, the striking sculpture She Dances with the Earth, Water, and Sky by Mohawk and Oneida artist David General, was unveiled on the Tabaret lawn. The work, a powerful symbol of Indigenous presence and belief systems, invites contemplation and respect.
On the third floor of Fauteux Hall, the mural Water is Life, by Metis and Anishnaabe artists Christi Belcourt and Isaac Murdoch, celebrates the kinship between water and Indigenous people through vibrant colours and powerful imagery.
In the Social Sciences Building, Kinistòtàdimin (meaning “we lift each other up”), a piece by Anishinaabeg artists Grace Ratt, Tina Nottaway and Shannon Chief, celebrates community, culture and interconnectedness, reflecting the ongoing decolonization efforts led by the Indigenous community.
The Living Wall, also in the Social Sciences Building, features a stunning beadwork pattern by Algonquin Anishnàbe artist Stephanie Tenasco, a member of Kitigan Zibi First Nation. Known for her intricate beadwork and commitment to Indigenous language preservation, Tenasco designed floral patterns for the work incorporating strawberries, an important traditional medicine.
Celebrating Indigenous presence: A commitment to the future
These initiatives recognize and honour the Indigenous community at the University of Ottawa. In continuing to embed Indigenous heritage within our campus’s identity, we commit to reconciliation, dedicate ourselves to learning about and supporting Indigenous history and knowledge, and ensure that this rich legacy thrives for future generations.
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.