Reconciliation to me is a complex ongoing process that must take place on multiple levels, including individual, institutional, and societal. On an individual level, I believe reconciliation requires that as a non-Indigenous person, I make sure I am aware of the history of harm caused by colonization and its ongoing legacies, and in particular that I am aware of local Indigenous histories and struggles. It also requires me to take steps on a daily basis to redress these harms.
As someone working in a university, I believe I have additional responsibilities: I must also understand and embrace the work that is required of non-Indigenous staff and faculty at McGill to hold myself accountable to the commitments made by the University in response to the TRC Report, as articulated in McGill’s Final Report on the Provost’s Task Force on Indigenous Studies and Indigenous Education. Anyone reading McGill’s report (and I believe all staff and faculty should) can understand that full implementation of the Calls to Action therein require both ongoing strong leadership and also uptake across all units and faculties. My pledge this September 30th is to set aside time during the month of October to read, reflect and take stock of the work I am already engaged in with regards to Indigenous Initiatives, and to identify opportunities and objectives related to deepening and expanding the work for the coming year.
Tynan Jarrett
Director, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Equity Team in the Office of the Provost and Vice-Principal (Academic)
