![Photo courtesy of [UBC Library] / Flickr.](https://ilrtoday.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/2967831524_11ae2d79e6_m.jpg)
The University of British Columbia Sauder School of Business announced a series of measures today to help students better understand Aboriginal peoples and issues.
The measures address the conclusions of a university fact-finding team on reports of derogatory chants during the September 2013 Commerce Undergraduate Society FROSH events. The chants were based on the Walt DisneyPocahontas animated film.
“The report we are releasing today shows us there is very little awareness of Indigenous peoples and their concerns among the students we interviewed,” said Vice President, Students Louise Cowin. “Clearly, UBC has a role to play in educating students to become more culturally competent.”
Sauder School of Business Dean Robert Helsley outlined specific initiatives, including workshops involving the university’s First Nations Studies Program, the inclusion of Indigenous topics in the core business curriculum, and redesigning the orientation of first-year students. This complements measures Helsley announced in September to support broader culture change.
“The Sauder School is deeply committed to building a positive culture of respect and responsibility,” said Helsley. “We need to fully engage our students on the themes of Indigenous culture, social justice and ethics. This is integral to corporate social responsibility in the 21st century.”
Students who were involved in the CUS FROSH ‘Pocahontas’ chants have already held discussions with faculty and students of the UBC First Nations Studies Program. Other workshops are planned for the broader Sauder community.
“The Truth and Reconciliation Commission is asking universities to integrate awareness of Aboriginal issues in professional education,” said Linc Kesler, senior advisor to UBC President Stephen Toope on Aboriginal affairs. “This is a meaningful and significant response on the part of UBC.”
BACKGROUND
UBC Sauder School of Business – measures announced:
- Curriculum development: Strengthening content on the broader aspects of diversity, ethics and responsibility, including Indigenous topics.
- Sauder-hosted events: Planning events to build awareness and understanding on issues of diversity, inclusivity, respect and ethical leadership.
- CUS leadership: Build understanding and awareness on Aboriginal issues and the effects of systemic racism on Indigenous communities through conversations with Daniel Justice, Chair of UBC’s First Nations Studies Program (FNSP).
- Ongoing engagement on Aboriginal issues: Working with FNSP to put in place workshops for students, faculty and staff.
- Orientation reform: Committing necessary resources and personnel to orient 1,000 new students annually, and collaborating with the CUS, students, faculty and alumni in developing an orientation program that will serve as a model for the university community.
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