Indigenous Acumen

UVic Land Acknowledgement

We acknowledge with respect the Lekwungen peoples on whose traditional territory the University of Victoria stands, and the Songhees, Esquimalt and W̱SÁNEĆ peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day.

What is a land acknowledgement and why do we have them?

A territory or land acknowledgement is a small but essential act of reconciliation.  It is a formal statement, often given at the beginning of ceremonies and events, which acknowledges and respects Indigenous Peoples as the traditional and enduring stewards of this land.  A land acknowledgement should encourage non-Indigenous individuals to ask questions; learn more about the history of the land; and to reconsider their relationship to the land.

Incorporating land acknowledgements is one way ARC strives to develop cultural safety.  A community is a safe space when the members of the community have strong cultural acumen.  A person who has cultural acumen acknowledges and respects differences in culture and backgrounds and has the skills and knowledge to work with others in ways which are effective and respectful.  This requires a consideration of social and historical context. 

We strongly encourage all members of the ARC community to take ICAT (Indigenous Cultural Acumen Training).  ICAT is a workshop offered by UVic which encourages self-reflection and self-education regarding how we, as individuals, interact and interface with Indigenous cultures and issues.  

Important notice on TMT: On July 23, 2019, UVic issued a statement on the TMT project on Mauna Kea.