Honouring Indigenous ways of knowing and being
During National Indigenous History Month day we acknowledge First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples’ integral role within the fabric of our campus community and throughout Canada.
Today and always, it is important to acknowledge that we are situated within Treaty No. 6 territory and the historic homeland of the Métis Nation (Region IV). It’s worth noting that our campus holds significant historical value as it served as a trading and gathering site for the Cree, Dene, Nakota Sioux, Blackfoot and the Métis, and is one of the original Métis river lots in Edmonton.
We recognize the invaluable contributions Indigenous community members, both past and present, have played in shaping CUE. Their influence will continue to be pivotal as we move forward with the work we are doing at the Indigenous Knowledge Research Centre (IKRC), and through Indigenous Studies courses we teach in history, culture, language, and business.
We strongly encourage CUE students, faculty and staff to actively participate in the events organized throughout the city. By recognizing this important celebration, we reinforce the importance of respecting the many rich and diverse Indigenous communities here in amiskwaciy waskahikan (Edmonton) in the spirit of treaty and reconciliation.
Embracing Indigenous history and perspectives for a stronger future
At CUE we are committed to furthering student’s understanding and appreciation for the histories, cultures, and knowledge systems of Indigenous peoples. We offer a range of courses that provide students with a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous Studies and related topics. Here is a taste of some courses we offer:
INDG (Indigenous Studies) 100 – Introduction to Indigenous Studies
INDG 290 – Indigenous Ways of Knowing
INDG 330 – Indigenous Law and Governance
HIS 369 – Indigenous Peoples and Canada Since 1867
Empowering reads by Indigenous authors
Expand your understanding beyond the classroom by delving into the profound insights offered by Indigenous authors. Here are some captivating books by Indigenous writers. This list was created on behalf of the IKRC for their virtual event, Tipi Teachings with Elder Philip Campiou.. Thank you to Danielle Powder, CUE’s Indigenous Knowledge and Research Centre Manager, for help in selecting and highlighting these resources.
A Stranger at Home: A True Story by Christy Jordan-Fenton
A Two-Spirit Journey: The Autobiography of a Lesbian Ojibwa-Cree Elder by Ma-Nee Chacaby
Blanket Toss Under Midnight Sun: Portraits of Everyday Life in Eight Indigenous Communities by Paul Seesequasis
From the Ashes: My Story of Being Métis, Homeless, and Finding My Way by Jesse Thistle
Full-metal Indigiqueer: Poems by Joshua Whitehead
Keetsahnak: Our Missing and Murdered Indigenous Sisters by Kim Anderson, Maria Campbell, & Christi Belcourt
My Heart Fills with Happiness = Sâkaskinew Nitêh Miywêyihtamowin Ohci by Monique Gray Smith
Our Story: Aboriginal Voices on Canada’s Past by Tantoo Cardinal
Read, Listen, Tell: Indigenous Stories from Turtle Island by Sophie McCall
River Woman by Katherena Vermette
Siha Tooskin Knows the Best Medicine by Charlene and Wilson Bearhead
Speaking our Truth: A Journey of Reconciliation by Monique Gray Smith
The Education of Augie Merasty: A Residential School Memoir by Joseph Auguste Merasty
This Wound is a World: Poems by Billy-Ray Belcourt
Committed to reclaiming and revitalizing Indigenous ways of being on campus
The IKRC is dedicated to providing support for Indigenous students throughout their academic journey at CUE. Collaborating with various departments within the university, the IKRC ensures Indigenous students have access to the necessary cultural and spiritual support they may require. This includes ceremonies, Elder support, cultural teachings, sharing circles, and one-on-one support.
The IKRC serves as a welcoming space where Indigenous students can seek guidance, advice, and assistance for both academic and personal challenges, with the team offering connections to other CUE or community supports as needed. Recognizing that success extends beyond the campus, the IKRC also collaborates with external organizations to address additional student needs, ranging from housing, computer training, psychological services, family support programs, and off-campus cultural programming.
By incorporating feasts, sharing circles, round dances, ceremonies, dedicated space, and other traditional practices, CUE’s broader campus life has been culturally enriched. As we continue to share, teach and learn, we aspire to create positive change throughout our community for generations to come.