Three universities in British Columbia—Thompson Rivers University, the University of Northern British Columbia, and the University of Victoria—have recently reaffirmed partnerships or embarked on initiatives alongside Indigenous community partners in the spirit of reconciliation. TRU and the Skeetchestn Indian Band have signed an affiliation agreement committing to recognition, respect, and a shared purpose. UNBC has partnered with the Sahtú Land and Water Board on an oilfield reclamation project. The project is guided by Sahtú Dene and Métis perspectives and focuses on helping these communities participate in reclamation processes. UVic’s Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) and the First Nations Leadership Council have entered into a climate-focused Relationship Protocol. UVic PICS Executive Director Ian Munro explained that the protocol “creates a meaningful foundation for academic and community partnerships that benefit First Nations and their lands and waters.”
