Creating a community
In support of our strategic plan’s Schulich Pillar, "Indigenous Engagement, Inclusivity and Reconciliation," and in the spirit of ii' taa'poh'to'p, UCalgary's Indigenous Strategy, we are hosting ongoing sessions to introduce participants to Indigenous ways of connecting, ethical space and sharing circle protocols.
Register to attend an event listed below!
Please note: this page will be continuously updated as events are confirmed.
Please join Deanna Burgart, Teaching Chair, and connect with other members of the Schulich community to foster ethical space and to learn about Indigenous peoples, perspectives and culture, and experience new ways of being and connecting.
Time: 12 - 1 p.m. MT
Location: ENA 06
Dates:
Join us to learn about Indigenous peoples, perspectives and reconciliation in engineering and submit any questions you have for Deanna to answer. For accessibility and inclusion purposes, this session will take place virtually and is open to all.
Time: 12 - 1 p.m. MT
Format: Zoom Meeting
Dates:
Talking circles are an important practice in many Indigenous Nations in North America. Regional protocols may vary but the intent throughout is common. Talking circles are a representation of Indigenous epistemologies and ontologies which reflect the value of interrelationships and the value of stories. In a talking circle, no one’s voice or perspective is held with more value or weight than another. Participants are encouraged to show up with their whole self, mind, body, spirit and heart, and to practice active listening throughout.
While one person speaks, everyone listens with empathy and compassion. The person speaking is conscious of time, ensuring all have a chance to share. It is ok to pass when it is an individual’s turn, and participants are encouraged to respect anyone’s decision to do so. All are mindful of treating the space and the speaker with respect.
When physically together, participants in a talking circle will be seated in a circle form, and the circle will usually begin with a leader, often an Elder, who will set the intent of the circle. Many circles begin in the East direction, and often the circle will follow the teachings of the Medicine Wheel. Accommodation should be made for regional protocols and guidance of Elders. A sacred item such as a talking stick may be used, and the speaker who holds the stick is the only one who may speak at the time.
Talking circles will be led by Elders wherever possible and Elders should be gifted with tobacco, honoraria and gifts, again, regional protocols may vary.
We will endeavor to honour the diverse protocols held by Indigenous peoples and agree to hold compassion and forgiveness if the unusual circumstances prevent us from incorporating all. Some of the main guidelines are as follows:
Guiding UCalgary on its path of transformation.
An app to help map Indigenous territories, treaties and languages.