Treaty Flags
The University of Alberta raised the Treaty 6 and Métis flags for the first time on Wednesday, a historic ceremony that coincided with the grand opening of the new University Commons building.
The flags were raised at the school’s North Campus during a ceremony attended by university officials, Treaty 6 and Métis community members, Lt.-Gov. Salma Lakhani and Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi.
University president and vice-chancellor Bill Flanagan said the event was a “historic moment” for the school.
“I hope that (passersby) see the history of these lands, they see the importance of truth and reconciliation to the university community,” Flanagan said at the ceremony.
The new flags now fly alongside the Alberta and Canadian flags, as well as the University of Alberta banner.
Enoch Cree Nation Chief Cody Thomas shared his thoughts with CFWE on the event
Elder Delmar Ghost Keeper spoke with CFWE and talked about the significance of the recolonization for the Indigenous and Metis community, as well as a little bit of history on the land before we knew it
The flag-raising ceremony was part of a broader celebration marking the official opening of the University Commons, a revitalized space formerly known as the Dentistry/Pharmacy Centre.
Flanagan described the building as a “crossroads for the entire university community.” The modern and expanded space is designed to be a central hub for student services, academics, and community events.
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