Section 6: Promoting Systemic Change

Summary

After completing this section, we hope that you will be more confident to speak up about Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation in your institution, your professional networks, and in your everyday life. While there may continue to be debate about the right words to use, the objective is to raise consciousness, or “conscientization” as Paulo Freire (1970) called it, so that actions for change will follow. As you continue to deepen your learning about Indigenization, we invite you to consider how you might be a leader and advocate for systemic change.

Key Learnings from This Section

  • A university is a system. Any approach to change, including Indigenization, needs to consider a systematic approach.
  • Many universities are engaged in multiple efforts to support Indigenization through a variety of forms.
  • Building a community of like-minded individuals within your institution will create opportunities for you to get involved in existing efforts toward Indigenization and to take a leadership role in bringing about transformational change.