Office of Indigenous Initiatives

The Office of Indigenous Initiatives supports UNBC’s reconciliation efforts by fostering meaningful relationships and advancing initiatives that honour Indigenous knowledge and traditions. Guided by the principles of the Four Rs—Respect, Reciprocity, Relevance, and Relationships—the office prioritizes creating an inclusive environment where Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples collaborate and learn. Respect underpins all engagements, ensuring cultural values and practices are honoured. Reciprocity drives efforts to establish mutually-beneficial partnerships with Indigenous communities. Relevance ensures programmes and initiatives address the specific needs and aspirations of Indigenous students, staff, and faculty. Relationships provide the foundation for building trust and fostering long-term collaboration, advancing reconciliation throughout the university.

This supports UNBC’s commitment to reconciliation, as indigenization is recognized as one of the pillars of UNBC’s Academic Action Plan.

The Office of Indigenous Initiatives and the First Nations Centre encourage you to explore the Indigenous Resource Dati (Doorway) for Indigenous-related resources at UNBC.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples

Strategic priorities

  • Engage and consult with Indigenous communities, students and faculty on indigenization.
  • Strategic planning and implementation of Indigenous initiatives.
  • Liaise with senior administration.
  • Develop and maintain the Aboriginal Service Plan.
  • Develop an Indigenous Action Plan that aligns with the University Strategic Road Map and the goals of the Aboriginal Service Plan.
  • Engage in meaningful, ongoing engagement with Indigenous communities to build long-term relationships to best serve the needs of Indigenous communities and students.
  • Ensure Indigenous students receive the necessary support through our First Nations Centre.

Related resources

Contact us

For more information, please contact us at OII@unbc.ca.