Grounded in truth, committed to change
Vancouver Community College is located on the traditional and unceded territories of the xʷməθkʷɛʷɛm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̧wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.
The Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) guide our work towards change. VCC recognizes that colonial harm is not confined to history books. The dispossession of land, suppression of culture, and continued marginalization of Indigenous communities remain deeply felt today. We are actively addressing these impacts through embedded, college-wide change.
Both campuses offer Gathering Spaces, essential cultural infrastructure that fosters safety, visibility, and connection. Just as importantly, Indigenous perspectives are embedded in the curriculum, reflecting the guidance of Indigenous leadership in shaping decisions across the college.
We know this work is ongoing. Indigenous racism continues to shape experiences in education and beyond. VCC responds by embedding decolonization in our policies, practices, and relationships across the college. This work is a shared commitment and a daily responsibility.
Built into our foundations
Indigenization at VCC is built into how we design, plan, and grow.
Our Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh Knowledge Keepers informed the collaboration of the Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation. Its canoe-inspired form honours the cultural importance of the China Creek area. That vision belongs to the communities whose history is rooted here.
Indigenous student gathering spaces at VCC are essential cultural infrastructure. These spaces support Indigenous presence, ceremony, and community. They offer connection, safety, and reflection for students and staff alike.
Centring Indigenous leadership
Elders guide our community with deep cultural knowledge and care. They offer teachings and ceremony, and shape how we foster relationships, take responsibility, and action belonging. We feel their influence across the college, in conversation and community.
Transforming education through action
Indigenous ways of knowing advance our learning environment. Faculty and staff work together through a Community of Practice, supporting changes towards Indigenous perspectives in the curriculum.
This commitments reflect a profound shift that recognizes Indigenous perspectives as foundational to the future of education.
