Capilano University introduces Chén̓chenstway
North Vancouver B.C. February 28, 2024 – Capilano University (CapU) is pleased to introduce Chén̓chenstway, a starting point for the university’s work towards reconciliation at CapU campuses and learning locations.
“Chén̓chenstway is a living document that will be adapted and revised over time as CapU evolves and progresses in its journey of reconciliation,” said Miranda Huron, director, Indigenous Education and Affairs. “It is intended to help bring members of the University community into a shared vision and mandate to create a pathway forward together in a good way.”
VIDEO: www.capilanou.ca/chenchenstway
It outlines five primary areas of commitment: learners, employees, programming, culture and knowledge. Plus, it provides an initial 18 associated actions the University will advance in parallel with its commitments and actions in the Illuminating 2030 academic plan. This will be done in collaboration with the local Host Nations—the Líl̓ wat, xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam), shíshálh (Sechelt), Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), SəỈílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations and the Métis Nation of BC.
As a guide for CapU in supporting and lifting up Indigenous ways of knowing, Chén̓chenstway will provide direction for incorporating First Nations languages, cultures and knowledge. It provides guidance in the University’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its relationship with Host Nations and the Métis Nation of BC through the advancement of regional Indigenous education priorities. It also aims to align the University’s words and actions with the goals and objectives being developed by the Ministry of Post-Secondary and Future Skills around the B.C. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.
Chén̓chenstway is centred around a set of themes. The document is grounded in the insights and perspectives shared and gathered through dialogues with multiple University community members walking together. Through each step of the consultation process leading to this day, CapU prioritized ensuring all voices were heard and their perspectives were valued.
About Capilano University
Capilano University is a regional university based in North Vancouver, British Columbia, with additional programming serving the Sunshine Coast and the Sea-to-Sky corridor. With industry-leading instructors, small classes and over 100 programs across five distinctive faculties, CapU is a unique place where students are encouraged to make their mark, in and out of the classroom. Capilano University is named after Sa7plek (Chief Joe Capilano), an important leader of the Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Nation of the Coast Salish Peoples. We respectfully acknowledge that our campuses and are located on the territories of the LíỈwat, xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam), shíshálh (Sechelt), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and SəỈílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
For more information, or to schedule interviews, please contact:
Linda Munro
Senior Advisor, Public Affairs
Capilano University
t: 604 220 8937
e: lindamunro@capilanou.ca
www.capilanou.ca
Submitted by: Communications