Listening to Indigenous Voices: WUSA’s Commitment to Indigenization and Advocacy

The Waterloo Undergraduate Student Association (WUSA) is committed to creating an environment where Indigenous voices are respected and amplified within the University of Waterloo community. As part of this commitment, we are developing the WUSA Indigenization Plan, to help us meaningfully integrate Indigenous perspectives and support systems into the fabric of student life. 

The Indigenization Plan outlines several key priorities, including support services for Indigenous students, community partnerships with local Indigenous communities, and political advocacy.  A cornerstone of this plan is to actively gather feedback and perspectives from our Indigenous student community. Effective advocacy must be shaped by those it seeks to support, and our hope is that this collaborative approach enriches the broader University community by fostering understanding and respect. 

To further these goals, WUSA is hosting Conversation Circles: an Indigenous Student Feedback Session on March 6, from 3:00 PM – 4:30 PM. Sign up here! This session is designed for Indigenous students to share their insights and experiences directly with WUSA. The takeaways from this session will be instrumental in shaping future advocacy and indigenization initiatives. Participants in the Conversation Circles will receive a $30 gift card as a thank you for taking the time to share their knowledge, experiences, and insights with us. 

Facilitating this session is Elder Myeengun Henry, the Indigenous Knowledge Keeper at the University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Health. Elder Henry brings a wealth of experience and leadership, having previously served as the Manager of Indigenous Services and a Professor of Indigenous Studies at Conestoga College. He is also the former Elected Chief and band councilor for the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation. He also has an extensive background in Indigenous affairs and his role as a traditional medicine practitioner and environmental protectionist.  

Our goal is that by hosting this event and working with Elder Myeengun Henry, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all members of the University of Waterloo community. 

Alexandra Minard 

Communications Assistant