UVic unveils Čeqʷəŋín and Sŋéqə, new student housing with lək̓ʷəŋən names

Two new student housing and dining buildings at the University of Victory have received lək̓ʷəŋən names: Čeqʷəŋín ʔéʔləŋ (Cheko’nien House) and Sŋéqə ʔéʔləŋ (Sngequ House). “The building names will be a constant reminder of the history of these lands and will hopefully inspire critical reflections and educational opportunities for the campus community,” said UVic VP Indigenous Qwul’sih’yah’maht, Robina Thomas. “The work we’ve undertaken together represents a milestone in acknowledging the true history of where we are located – on lək̓ʷəŋən territory – and a way forward in continuing to build respectful relationships with local Nations.” The Indigenous names were revealed after a consultation process between the university and Chiefs and Councils, Elders, and community members.