Truth-telling and UC's Role in the Project of Colonization
Our Goal: Truth-telling and UC's Role in the Project of Colonization
To build and maintain respectful and mutually beneficial relationships with Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, individuals and communities through facilitating an open dialogue about Truth and Reconciliation that acknowledges Canada’s colonial legacy alongside the distinct histories and valuable contributions of Indigenous Peoples.
Original Recommendations:
Identify and name appropriate spaces using Indigenous languages and revise college signage to reflect the role of Indigenous peoples on the lands and in the life of University College
-
Actions completed
In 2020, UC contacted the Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada (HSMBC) to request that the inscriptions on the two HSMBC plaques at the front of the main building be revised to include Indigenous history.
In 2023, UC invited Dr. Caitlin Harvey to give a talk on “University Land Grabs: Indigenous Dispossession and the University of Toronto”. She discussed the impact of Indigenous land dispossession specific to University College and the University of Toronto.
In 2025, UC published The Land and Endowments and The Treaty Land We're On on the UC website, describing the role of Indigenous lands in the financing of the University College building.
-
Ongoing actions
UC continues to generate and publish a report describing the college's steps and actions towards reconciliation every two years.
UC continues to collect historical materials that more accurately reveal the college’s role in the history of colonization for the revision of signage and communications.
UC continues to develop mutually beneficial relationships with local Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers to facilitate open dialogue and collaboration, including in the addition of local Indigenous languages in college signage and communications.
Other Actions Taken
In 2025, a series of webpages was created and published on the UC website to keep ourselves and our actions towards truth and reconciliation clearly visible and easily accessible. The webpage contents will be regularly updated in addition to the publication of our biennial reports.
From 2022–24, UC has recognized and commemorated the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation. College members have been encouraged to wear Orange Shirts in solidarity with Indigenous communities. UC has been encouraged to learn more and reflect on the significance of the day through public messaging, special Indigenous menu items at the dining hall, and informative displays in the residences and library.