Updates

December 2004

In adopting its Strategic Plan in 2002, University of Victoria pledged to “build on our commitment to our unique relationship with First Nations communities.” One of the ways the university stated it would achieve this objective was through the construction of a First Peoples House.

A preliminary design is now ready for the First Peoples House—a design that incorporates the suggestions, advice and hopes heard during several consultation sessions with First Nations leaders as well as UVic Aboriginal faculty, staff and students.

The House aspires to be a welcoming home for Aboriginal students, an inclusive and healing place for the local and global Indigenous community and non-Indigenous people alike. The design and imagery should speak to the importance of providing a safe place that respects the territories, the ancestors and importance of preparing communities for the future. The proposed site for the House is a central location on campus.

This House will support the academic, emotional, spiritual and physical needs of Indigenous students, while recognizing and honouring the diversity of values and beliefs among Indigenous people.

After receiving follow up feedback from First Nations communities and the campus community, the University of Victoria is now taking the next steps on its commitment to build a First Peoples House on campus.

Jack Falk
Vice-President Finance and Operations