Celebrating Progress: OII Releases 2024–25 Progress Report
Monday, June 23
June 21 marked both National Indigenous Peoples Day and the Summer Solstice, a time of deep significance, celebration and reflection across the country.
At Western, it was a moment to honour the vibrant histories, cultures and experiences of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples, and to reaffirm our shared responsibility in advancing truth, reconciliation and Indigenous-led change.
In recognition of this day, Western University was proud to release the Office of Indigenous Initiatives’ 2024-2025 Annual Progress Report, a comprehensive overview of the actions taken over the past year to support the goals outlined in Western’s Indigenous Strategic Plan.
The report outlines key areas of progress, including enhanced supports for Indigenous students and faculty, increased Indigenous leadership and accountability in administration and policy changes that affirm Indigenous sovereignty.
It also highlights advances in teaching and learning, community-engaged research, and partnerships with Indigenous communities. Featured events and initiatives from the past year showcase the impact of collaboration across campus in centering Indigenous voices.
The Office of Indigenous Initiatives began handing out the Progress Report at the Indigenous Solidarity Day event in Wortley Village on Friday, June 20, which is hosted by Atlohsa Family Healing Services.
“Sharing this report directly with Indigenous community members first – at events like Indigenous Solidarity Day – is about respect and accountability,” said Paula Cornelius-Hedgepeth, director (Indigenous engagement). “These relationships are the foundation of the work we do. It’s important that Indigenous people see themselves reflected in the progress and are the first to receive the updates on how Western is acting on its commitments.”
As we celebrate Indigenous excellence every day, we invite the Western community and the public to reflect on the journey so far, and to engage with the work of reconciliation in meaningful and sustained ways.
Read the full report on Strategic Planning & Reports: indigenous.uwo.ca/initiatives/stratreports/index.html
