Indigenization Process
What is Indigenization?
What is indigenization?
At its core, indigenization is about respect. Respect for the land, for the truth of our shared history, and for one another.
At Selwyn, this will be brought to life by examining our institutional values and culture and implementing changes where necessary through a long-term vision and strategy.
With each step we take in this groundbreaking process, SHS will become a leader in indigenization at the K-12 level across Canada and around the world.
What the Research says:
The University of Saskatchewan, a leader in indigenization in Canada, defines the term as:
• “A multi-staged institutional initiative that supports societal
reconciliation;
• An intentional, culturally sensitive and appropriate approach to
adding Indigenous ideas, concepts, and practices into curricula,
when and where it is appropriate;
• A strategic set of changes to policies, procedures and practices
that increase inclusion, break down barriers and realign
institutional and school outcomes without harm to previously
established goals; and
• An iterative developmental approach to understanding Canada’s
colonial history and the more contemporary issues impacting
Indigenous people. Engaging in critical reflections from a
professional and/or personal perspective about how to build safe
and ethical spaces for Indigenous knowledges, worldviews, and
practices.”
“Indigenization is not an ‘Indigenous issue’ and it is not undertaken solely to benefit Indigenous students. Indigenization benefits everyone; we all gain a richer understanding of the world and of our specific location in the world through awareness of Indigenous knowledge and perspectives. Indigenization also contributes to a more just world, creating a shared understanding that opens the way toward reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.”
Cull, I., Hancock, R., McKeown, S., Pidgeon, M., & Vedan, A. (2018). Pulling together: A guide for indigenization of post-secondary institutions. https://bccampus.ca/2020/10/05/decolonization-and-indigenization/
What is indigenization at Selwyn House?
• This is not just another ‘new thing’
• It is based on research and best practices
• It is a personalized approach and process
• Stakeholder inclusion is a must
• We are prioritizing transparency and communication
• We are implementing systemic and sustainable changes
