The College of the Rockies will launch an Indigenous advisory committee to bring in diverse perspectives and knowledge.
College officials said the committee was formed in collaboration with First Nations, Métis Chartered Communities, and the Ktunaxa Nation Council.
“This collaboration with our Indigenous partners is part of the College’s ongoing commitment to genuine reconciliation with Indigenous communities in our region,” said Dana Wesley, Executive Director of Indigenous Strategy and Reconciliation.
“We currently engage closely with Indigenous partners in various ways, but this Advisory Committee will provide a strategic platform for our Indigenous partners to advocate for their educational needs.”
The committee will use a distinctions-based approach, which will acknowledge the specific rights, interests, priorities, and concerns of each member and respect unique cultures, histories, rights, laws, and governments.
“It is so important for all students of First Nations ancestry to have a sense of belonging in their educational setting,” said Shuswap Band Chief Barbara Cote.
“Having the positive supports in the College helps them to discover more about themselves and to achieve their goals in education for their future independence.”
The Ktunaxa Nation Council (KNC) and the Rocky Mountain Métis Association (RMMA) are also eager to collaborate with the College.
“On behalf of the Ktunaxa Nation Council, I look forward to engaging with the College of the Rockies and partners throughout Ktunaxa ʔamakʔis,” said Eric Einarson, KNC Director of Education and Employment. “I am pleased to be continuing discussions and dialogue as we travel together on the path of Reconciliation.”
“Rocky Mountain Métis Association (RMMA) is pleased to work with Ktunaxa and other First Nations and College of the Rockies to establish good relations in ways that honour and strengthen the educational needs of Ktunaxa and other First Nations, uphold our own and provide all Indigenous students with access to education at COTR as distinct Indigenous peoples,” said Jeff Crozier, RMMA President.
College officials said a terms of reference will be created for the Committee ahead of its inaugural meeting set for this fall.
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