Updated land acknowledgment
We are making an important correction to Capilano University’s land acknowledgment.
Over the past several months, questions have been raised about the historical basis for the opening sentence of our acknowledgment referencing Joe Capilano. Following further review and conversations led by Indigenous education & affairs with Elders, we have determined that this wording should no longer form part of the university’s land acknowledgment. The updated acknowledgment also removes reference to the shíshálh (Sechelt) campus, which has now closed.
Updated land acknowledgment:
Capilano University respectfully acknowledges that our campuses are located on the unceded territories of the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), Sḵwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam) Nations.
Making this correction is important. A land acknowledgment should reflect our relationships with the Host Nations on whose territories we live, learn and work, and be grounded in accuracy and respect. When we learn that part of our own institutional practice does not meet that standard, we have a responsibility to address it.
We are identifying where the acknowledgment appears across the university and will update it on a rolling basis.
Our immediate priorities include:
- university websites and other digital platforms;
- employee email signatures;
- templates, presentations and materials currently in development; and
- land acknowledgments used in speeches, events and verbal remarks.
Physical signage and other permanent materials will be updated over time.
I want to thank our colleagues in Indigenous education & affairs and the Elders and Host Nations who have guided us in making this correction. This is part of our ongoing work to strengthen relationships, learn from our history and ensure our actions reflect the commitments we make as a university.
Sincerely,
Jason Dewling, PhD
President & Vice-Chancellor
Submitted by: Communications & Government Relations