The University of Manitoba is enriched by an Indigenous community of over 2,400 students, staff and faculty along with thousands of alumni. We are thankful for the gifts they bring and the knowledge they share, making our campuses a better place to learn, work, and be inspired. 

Today, let us take the opportunity to join in a celebration of National Aboriginal Day, honouring the rich histories, cultures and traditions, as well as the many contributions, of the First Nations, Métis and Inuit people of Turtle Island.  

And, as we mark the University’s 140th anniversary, let us reflect on our past with honesty and commit to a future based on the principles of mutual trust, respect, and reciprocity.

In May, at the 28^th Annual Graduation Pow Wow, our community celebrated the highest number of Indigenous graduates ever – over 430 visionaries and leaders.

This year, six new Indigenous scholar positions have been established in faculties across our campuses, and 22 new Indigenous initiatives projects were funded to advance the University’s strong commitment to Indigenous achievement and to further embed Indigenous perspectives into curriculum, programs and research.

Just a few weeks ago, Ongomiizin Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing was launched at the Bannatyne campus – a direct response to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action, particularly in the areas of health care and health education.

In September, we will welcome U of M’s first Vice-Provost (Indigenous Engagement), Dr. Lynn Lavallée, who fills a position that has evolved from the University’s innovative Executive Lead, Indigenous Achievement.  

Yesterday, I had the honour of signing the City of Winnipeg’s Indigenous Accord on behalf of the University of Manitoba, committing to working together with the Mayor, Elders, Indigenous leaders, and other groups and organizations to take action in advancing reconciliation.

And today, the entire U of M community is invited to come together in a round dance circling the Administration Building. I hope that you will be able to participate in the celebrations. 

Joining hands and spirits, we can make real progress on the path to reconciliation. 

Miigwetch,

David

Rules and Regulations

The ‘Do you know your Indigenous UofM?’ Instagram Contest runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. CST on Wednesday, June 21 on www.instagram.com/umanitoba.

Throughout the day, six campus photos will be shared with a question.

To be entered to win, answer the question correctly in the specific post comments within the hour of posting. PRIVATE Instagram accounts must be PUBLIC during the Contest in order to qualify for entry.

All entries during the day of the challenge (within each hour following the post) will be entered to win and a random draw will be made to choose a winner. You may enter once per post, up to six times total. The grand prize winner will receive an Indigenous-themed prize package valued at up to $100.

The winner will be drawn by the Marketing and Communications Office. The winner will be notified by Instagram direct message and announced publicly on the account.

Prizes must be picked up from Migizii Agamik/Bald Eagle Lodge during regular business hours.

Contest is open to all residents of Manitoba, but prize must be picked up at the UofM Fort Garry Campus.

This contest is in no way sponsored, administered, or associated with Instagram, Inc.

By entering, entrants confirm they are 13+ years of age, release Instagram of responsibility, and agree to Instagram’s term of use.

Since 1996, National Aboriginal Day has been held annually on the summer solstice – falling this year on June 21 – as a day for all Canadians to recognize the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.

“With over 2,400 self-declared Indigenous students at the University of Manitoba, National Aboriginal Day is an important part of creating culturally-respectful learning spaces,” says Christine Cyr, director of the Indigenous Student Centre. “I am excited for everyone to come out and share in the celebration.”

In preparation for National Aboriginal Day, a teepee was raised on Thursday, June 15 on the lawn in front of Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge. 

On June 21, the festivities will begin at noon at the Administration Building with a Friendship Round Dance – a Cree tradition where participants join hands and dance in a large circle – followed by coffee, cake and community at Migizii Agamik – Bald Eagle Lodge.

These activities are free and everyone is welcome.

The University of Manitoba is home to one of the largest Indigenous post-secondary populations in the country. This spring, over 430 Indigenous students were honoured at the 28th Annual Traditional Graduation Pow Wow, celebrating their academic achievements.

Stay up to date on events, share your photos and join the conversation on Twitter and Instagram with #UMIndigenous.

Congratulations to Chrysta Lee Wood for winning our “Do You Know Your Indigenous U of M?” contest. Chrysta is a recent U of M alumna, having completed her Bachelor of Social Work through the Inner City Social Work Program in the spring of this year!

Over the course of the day, we shared these eight pictures of Indigenous spaces, artwork, and symbols found around our multiple campuses. Chrysta, along with anyone who correctly answered any of the skill-testing questions that accompanied the pictures, was entered in a draw for our Indigenous prize pack.

Thank you to the Centre for Aboriginal Human Resource Development Inc., Aboriginal Issues Press, the University of Manitoba Bookstore, the Indigenous Student Centre, and Justin Rasmussen for donating to our prize package.

[See image gallery at umtoday-wordpress.ad.umanitoba.ca]