UNBC Panel Highlights Collective Responsibility in Reconciliation

The UNBC Community came together for a discussion on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Dr. Daniel Sims discussed UNBC’s progress, followed by a panel that highlighted non-Indigenous responsibilities in advancing reconciliation.

A speaker stands at a podium addressing a seated audience in a room with a presentation screen displaying the title ‘Calls to Action’ and an image of two people interacting outdoors. The audience faces the screen, listening attentively, with orange fabric visible on the wall to the right.
Associate Professor in the Faculty of Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences and Humanities Dr. Daniel Sims speaks during the panel on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, highlighting the work being done at UNBC and the role of academic institutions in advancing reconciliation.

Prince George, BC. - As part of UNBC’s efforts to meaningfully advance reconciliation, the University hosted a presentation and panel discussion for students, faculty, staff and community members to deepen understanding on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.

Four panelists sit at a table in front of a projected slide that reads, ‘What do the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action mean to you personally, and how have they influenced your perspective on reconciliation?’ The panelists, from left to right, are Rahim Somani, Erica Hernandez-Read, Dr. Taru Manyanga, and Dr. Theresa Healy. They are engaged in discussion while an audience is visible in the foreground.

Faculty of Indigenous Studies, Social Sciences & Humanities Associate Professor Dr. Daniel Sims began the session by exploring the work being done towards these Calls to Action at UNBC, as well as the responsibilities of academic institutions in this ongoing work.

With guidance from Indigenous leaders, the panel featured non-Indigenous members of the UNBC community in a deliberate effort to model the responsibility all people have towards initiating and participating in progressing the Calls to Action.

Moderated by School of Planning and Sustainability Assistant Professor, Dr. Theresa Healy, panelists Vice-President Finance and Administration Rahim Somani, Division of Medical Sciences Assistant Professor Dr. Taru Manyanga and Geoffrey R. Weller Library Head Archivist Erica Hernandez-Read shared what the Calls to Action mean to them personally and how they’re working to implement them professionally.

This important discussion highlighted meaningful actions individuals can take toward reconciliation.
 
Acting on Truth and Reconciliation is a key pillar in UNBC’s strategic plan, Ready. 
 
The non-profit Indigenous Watchdog offers a nationwide progress update on the 94 Calls to Action here.