The Indigenous Education Council (IEC) and McMaster’s Indigenous Research Institute have released an Indigenous Strategic Directions document to guide the University as a whole, with four main strategic goals of research, education, student experience and leadership and governance. “This strategy really represents a forward thinking, progressive approach that will move us in the right direction of addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to act on, specifically to education”, says Randy Jackson, Academic Co-Chair of the IEC. “It demonstrates the best of working together at McMaster.” McMaster University Indigenous Strategic Directions Document.
McMaster Smudging Protocol affirms the right of Indigenous peoples to engage in Smudging on campus. This right is upheld by the University’s “Procedure forBurning Traditional and Sacred Medicines” which recognizes that “the use of theseTraditional a and Sacred Medicines for ceremonial purposes is separate and distinct from the ‘recreational’ use of tobacco, and other substances, and as such is not subject to the same restrictions outlined in the Tobacco & Smoke Free University Policy”.The Smudging Protocol serves to provide information and guidance to the McMaster community in order that Indigenous-identified individuals and groups are affirmed and supported when they engage in their cultural and spiritual practices, including Smudging. McMaster Smudging Protocol
Calls to Action:
- The Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. PDF: TRC Calls to Actions
- Missing and Murdered Women and Girls Call to Justice PDF: MMIWG Call to Justice
