Indigenous people in Canada have been subject to systematic racism and genocide, prior to and during Canada's 153 years of existence. Indigenous people in present day Canada are still struggling with equal treatment under the law, protection of their land and culture, access to clean water and basic necessities, and the lack of investigation into an unknown number of missing and murdered Indigenous women.

As you can see from the maps above Indigenous people in Canada have seen a 97% reduction in land that they inhabited first. The land both Laurier Waterloo and Laurier Brantford stand on are originally part of Indigenous land.

Wilfrid Laurier University Acknowledges the Land their school is located on in the following Land Acknowledgement:

"We would like to acknowledge that Wilfrid Laurier University and its campuses are located on the Haldimand tract, traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishnaabe (Anish-nah-bay) and Haudenosaunee (Hoe-den-no-show-nee) peoples. This land is part of the Dish with One Spoon Treaty between the Haudenosaunee and Anishnaabe peoples and symbolizes the agreement to share, protect our resources and not to engage in conflict. From the Haldimand Treaty of Oct. 25, 1784 this territory is described as: “six miles deep from each side of the river (Grand River) beginning at Lake Erie and extending in the proportion to the Head of said river, which them and their posterity are to enjoy forever.” The treaty was signed by the British with their allies, the Six Nations, after the American Revolution. Despite being the largest reserve demographically in Canada, those nations now reside on less than five per cent of this original territory after losing much of the territory to settlement of newcomers.

Today, this gathering place is home to many First Nations, Métis and Indigenous peoples from across Turtle Island. Acknowledging them reminds us of our important connection to this land where we live, learn and work. We recognize, honour and respect these nations as the traditional stewards of the lands and water on which Laurier is now present."

Indigenous Cinema is an initiative run by the National Film Board of Canada. It house over 200 films by Indigenous Directors that are free to watch!

• Indigenous Students Association - A club run on both Laurier Campuses focused on promoting cultural awareness through reconciliation, inclusivity and friendship. ISA serves to provide students with academic and personal support throughout their undergraduate degree as well as creating a place to come together and celebrate Indigenous heritage while also educating the general public. If you are interested in getting involved send them an email!

• Amnesty Take Action - A list of ways to support Indigenous people in Canada

• 11 Organizations to support

Pass the Feather is a website that promotes Indigenous artists and their works! You can browse different Artist galleries, shop for books, jewelery and Covid 19 face masks.