Background
First Peoples’ House has been the hub for Indigenous students, staff and faculty for the last three decades. Along with acting as a safe gathering space dedicated for Indigenous peoples, FPH also holds 6 rooms for rent for Indigenous students. The landscape for Indigenous students at McGill has greatly changed within three decades with an estimated 550-600 self-identified Indigenous students attending. The current spaces and facilities meant to foster community with the Indigenous population are no longer acceptable.
The Housing Strategy Initiative aims to increase dedicated Indigenous student housing by converting three floors of the Royal Victoria College residence building and allocating five spaces in Laird Hall at Macdonald Campus. As First Peoples’ House remains a remarkable pillar of community space and gathering, renovations to improve the building’s livability and longevity commits to its role as an integral Indigenous space on campus.
Plan
There are plans to relocate undergraduate and graduate Indigenous housing from FPH beginning in FY27. Undergraduates will be moved to three dedicated floors in RVC or Laird Hall (Macdonald Campus). In the near future, FPH will undergo renovations and conversion into Indigenous graduate student housing.
Housing Accommodations for Indigenous Students
During this transition it’s important that all students are supported in finding accommodations that are right for them. If you are interested in McGill housing please visit here for any information.
Future of First Peoples’ House
To attract and retain Indigenous students, staff, and faculty, McGill must offer spaces that reflect contemporary Indigenous realities and expectations. A culturally grounded, accessible, and well-resourced space is a critical factor in decisions to join and remain at the University.
The New First Peoples’ House also serves as a point of connection between McGill and Indigenous communities, organizations, artists, and Knowledge Holders. A new, renovated space will allow the University to host gatherings, ceremonies, and collaborations in ways that are grounded in reciprocity, dignity, and long-term relationship building.
This work reflects a broader understanding of public responsibility, one that emphasizes trust, continuity, and respectful engagement.
The proposed Indigenous space is envisioned as a central Indigenous Communal Hub that supports cultural continuity, student life, academic engagement, and community connection.
First Peoples’ House is more than housing, it is a place of belonging, community, and care. While the transition is necessary, the emotional and cultural impact on students is real and has been taken seriously throughout the process. Ongoing conversations and individual support continue to be available.
