Pictured above L to R - Dr. Onowa McIvor and husband, Dr. Paul Whitinui.

Congratulations Dr. Onowa McIvor!

We are proud to celebrate Dr. Onowa McIvor who was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal on February 20, 2025, at Rideau Hall in Ottawa. This prestigious honour recognizes her dedication to Indigenous language revitalization and her work in developing a national network of Indigenous language education initiatives.

kihci-okimâwîtisiwin kî-ohci-nitawi-ki miyo kispinatamāson - great leadership, to have earned this well. 

Pictured above L to R - 1st picture: The King Charles III coronation medal; 2nd picture: Paul Whitinui with UVic coronation medal recipients, Moronke Harris (oceanographer), Onowa McIvor (professor), and Carey Newman (artist).

Pictured above L to R - Dr Alice L Meyers (Course Instructor), Sherri McKee (Mahoi family descendant), Wushqtunaat Candice George, Naiomi Toye, Thi’ultu’wit Krista Perrault, Tulcimutlaat Kimberly E. Harris, Arthur Jim (Stz'uminus), Erin Slade (Sea Gardens Restoration Team, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Parks Canada)

Exploring ȾEMÁȻES Russell Island:

A Journey with Knowledge Holders

In an exploration of Hul'q'umi'num' ethnobotany, students from ES 381 embarked on a journey to the Sea Gardens Restoration Project at ȾEMÁȻES Russell Island. Led by Knowledge Holders Ken Thomas (Penelakut), Arthur Jim (Stz'uminus), and Sherri McKee (Mahoi family descendant), alongside the team from Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Parks Canada, this field trip delved into Indigenous knowledge of environmental stewardship.

This transformative experience not only enriched the students understanding of ethnobotany but also reinforced the commitment to supporting Indigenous learner success and environmental conservation.

Pictured above L to R - 1st picture: Tulcimutlaat Kimberly E. Harris, Thi’ultu’wit Krista Perrault, Wushqtunaat Candice George, Naiomi Toye, Suliqiye' Buffi David, Erich Kelch (Sea Gardens Restoration Team Lead, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, Parks Canada); 2nd picture; Suliqiye' Buffi David, Wushqtunaat Candice George, Naiomi Toye, Tulcimutlaat Kimberly E. Harris, Thi’ultu’wit Krista Perrault

Pictured above L to R: Kim Harris and Elder Buffy David

Language Immersion through Storytelling

Students in the IED 475 Immersion Language Teaching Methodologies class at Stz’uminus First Nation are exploring the second language acquisition using children's stories. Led by Elder Buffy David, students are exploring Hul‘q’umi‘num’ through the retelling of classics like "Goldilocks and the Three Bears." This immersive approach not only preserves the language but also enhances students' storytelling skills. Together, they reflect on their progress and plan their next steps in mastering language immersion techniques.

Indigenous Post-Degree Professional Program Update

We are thrilled to share an update on the progress of our inaugural cohort in the Indigenous Post-Degree Professional Program (I-PDPP). As they enter the final month of the program, our 10 candidates are making excellent strides in their final practicum placements within School District 61. We extend our gratitude to Victoria Schools, mentor teachers, school administration, and our dedicated University Field Advisors for their invaluable support and guidance.

Upon completion of the program, these candidates will earn their Bachelor of Education degree and become eligible for the Professional Certificate of Teacher Qualification issued by the British Columbia Ministry of Education and Childcare.

Looking ahead, we are delighted to announce that we have received many strong applications for our next cohort, scheduled to commence in September 2025. This program continues to play a vital role in preparing aspiring educators to serve our communities with excellence and dedication.

Teaching and Learning Indigenous Perspectives Electives

The Department of Indigenous Education at the University of Victoria is pleased to offer Teaching and Learning Indigenous Perspectives, a series of electives available to all students, including pre-service teachers pursuing the TQS Category 5 and 5+ qualification upgrade. In-service teachers hoping to enrich their knowledge and skills in Indigenous education are also welcome.

These courses aim to give participants an opportunity to learn from and about Indigenous knowledge, and to make valuable connections to local Indigenous communities to strengthen their understanding of Indigenous peoples and societies. Indigenous Education initiatives continue to be a high priority for School Districts across the province, especially with the requirement of the BCTC Standard 9 and these courses are designed to meet this important and distinct need. 

Courses offered in July 2025

IED 372 - Indigenous Epistemologies (online)

An exploration of Indigenous knowledge and practices of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people. Discussion topics include: Indigenous worldviews, frameworks, methodologies, and protocols that validate Indigenous ways of being and living, and the appreciation of the mental, spiritual, physical and emotional aspects of Indigenous knowledge.

IED 473 - CENENITEL TW TOLNEW: Helping each other to learn

Introduction to an Indigenous world of learning and teaching through hands-on practical activities integrated with theoretical and academic goals. Experiences in the principles of traditional Indigenous ways of teaching and learning such as mentorship and apprenticeship. Respectful practice, community engagement and personal responsibility help learners develop insight into Indigenous pedagogy while working alongside community knowledge keepers, elders and artists.

IED 476 - Foundations of Decolonization (online)

A critical exploration of the relationship between settler and colonial identities in Canada. Students examine and engage settler colonial structures to identify ways to decolonize at individual and institutional levels.

Courses are offered subject to enrollment.

The Teacher Qualification Service (TQS) recommends that all applicants apply for program pre-approval through their website. Upon completion of 30 eligible credits (15 UVic units, typically 10 courses), individuals seeking a category upgrade from TQS will need to submit a formal application. The final decision rests with the TQS.

TLIP website

Twice Colonized featuring Aaju Peter

Renowed Inuit lawyer Aaju Peter has spent her life fighing for Inuit rights. When her son suddenly dies, she sets out to reclaim her language and culture after a lifetime of forced assimilation. 

Film: Twice Colonized