The important concepts of Indigenization, decolonization, and reconciliation are interrelated but not interchangeable. Definitions for these terms may vary depending upon the source and the context. The following definitions are from the glossary pages of BCcampus’s Pulling Together: A Guide for Curriculum Developers.
| Indigenization: the process of naturalizing Indigenous knowledge systems and making them evident to transform spaces, places, and hearts. In the context of post-secondary education, this involves bringing Indigenous knowledge and approaches together with Western knowledge systems. It is a deliberate coming together of these two ways of being. |
| Decolonization: the process of deconstructing colonial ideologies of the superiority and privilege of Western thought and approaches. Decolonization involves valuing and revitalizing Indigenous knowledge and approaches, and rethinking Western biases or assumptions that have impacted Indigenous ways of being. |
| Reconciliation: addressing past wrongs done to Indigenous Peoples, making amends, and improving relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people to create a better future for all. |
For more definitions related to Indigenization, visit the Glossary of Terms page from BCCampus’ Pulling Together: A Guide for Curriculum Developers.
Photo: This Musqueam house post, locally carved by Brent Sparrow Jr., was installed in the northwest corner of the campus in 2018. It welcomes all visitors to the traditional unceded territory of the Musqueam People on which Langara resides. You can watch a video of the Musqueam house post unveiling here.
