Photo Credit: The First Peoples House at the University of Victoria. Pictured: Xwa Lack Tun’s (Rick Harry) carved doors to the Ceremonial Hall.

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June is National Indigenous History Month in Canada, a time to recognize, learn about and celebrate the rich history, heritage, resilience, and diversity of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples.

As we recognize National Indigenous History Month and look ahead to National Indigenous Peoples Day on June 21, we invite you to reflect, learn and engage with the diverse histories, cultures and contributions of Indigenous Peoples.

At Continuing Studies, we acknowledge and respect the Lək̓ʷəŋən (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) Peoples, on whose territory the university stands, and the Lək̓ʷəŋən and W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples whose historical relationships with the land continue to this day. This acknowledgment aligns with UVic’s broader institutional commitment to truth, respect and reconciliation, as outlined in UVic's Indigenous Plan.

A longstanding commitment to Indigenous learning

For over 30 years, Continuing Studies has collaborated with Indigenous organizations and communities to provide accessible, culturally relevant educational opportunities.

This includes our long-term partnership with the En’owkin Centre, an Indigenous post-secondary institution in Penticton, BC, as well as numerous partnerships with Indigenous organizations and communities across Turtle Island to deliver adult learning opportunities in Indigenous language revitalization and other community and professional programs.

Indigenous-focused programs and courses

Continuing Studies is committed to supporting the needs and perspectives of Indigenous learners and communities by offering accessible and culturally appropriate learning opportunities.

Currently, our programs include:

• Certificate in Indigenous Language Revitalization
• Foundations in Indigenous Fine Arts
• Indigenous Approaches to Governance in Canada
• Indigenous Cultural Stewardship
• Indigenous Language Documentation
• Intellectual and Cultural Property Law
• Restoration of Natural Systems

We are also pleased to offer the following courses for the upcoming fall 2026 term:

• Reclaiming Family and Community Medicines — Led by renowned Tłı̨chǫ Dene author and storyteller Richard Van Camp, this course invites students to explore his journey of reclaiming family and community healing through the power of storytelling.
• Responsibilities to Coastal Indigenous Peoples and Lands — Explore local lands and Coast Salish protocols, focusing on the connections between land, water, people, and what it means to be a respectful guest.
• Indigenous Sovereignty for Settlers — Delve into Indigenous sovereignty on Coast Salish and other territories, focusing on how settlers can support Indigenous resurgence and become more responsible visitors.
• Unsettling BC History — Examine BC public school textbooks from the province’s first 50 years to uncover how Indigenous histories, truths, and omissions are represented.
• Data Ethics and Security — Explore the ethical and security considerations in data management, with a special emphasis on Indigenous Data Sovereignty and responsible practices with Indigenous communities.

Milestones and recognition

Over the past two years, Continuing Studies has celebrated a series of meaningful achievements that reflect our ongoing commitment to Indigenous language revitalization and the expansion of culturally relevant educational opportunities.

Supporting Indigenous learners: CILR Award

To further support Indigenous learners, Continuing Studies is proud to offer the Certificate in Indigenous Language Revitalization (CILR) Award, made possible through the generosity of an anonymous donor.

Valued at $1,500 and awarded each fall, this annual award assists current CILR students with various expenses.

Last fall, we were honoured to present the award to Joy Hall, Skowkale and Sts'ailes First Nation in Sto:lo Nation, BC and Michelle James, Mowachaht/Muchalaht First Nation, BC. Read more about our CILR award recipients.

 

• Posted June 1, 2026