“For us at the University of Alberta, we know that reconciliation is not a destination; it’s a journey,” said Flanagan. “And it’s one that we’re constantly walking down with our partners, First Nations, Métis and Inuit communities. And today marks a really important milestone in that journey of reconciliation, creating a home for all of our Indigenous students, where they will feel supported, where they can thrive in their studies. It’s an enormously proud moment for all of us.
First Peoples’ House is now open on the University of Alberta’s North Campus, giving thousands of Indigenous students a new space to gather, learn, and feel more at home.
The 40,000 square foot building includes areas to connect with Elders, smudge, cook together, and access mentorship. It also features a gym, a healing room, and rooms for ceremony and study.
nêhiyawêwin (Cree) is prominently featured throughout the building.
Shana Dion, assistant dean for First Nation, Métis, and Inuit students, described it as “a place of love.”
“Institutions weren’t created for us,” Dion said at the grand opening on Monday. “We weren’t at the tables, and now we created our own table and created a space that’s just for our First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students.“Where they can thrive. Where they can be a part of ceremony, hear the language, listen to the Elders, listen to the teachings, and gather all the information and the teachings that they never had before.”
The $16.8-million facility took three years to build. It replaces the much smaller First Peoples’ House that previously occupied space in the Students’ Union Building.
U of A president Bill Flanagan said the opening of First peoples house is an historic day for the university.
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