The School of Kinesiology is pleased to highlight the remarkable work being done by students in KIN484: Advanced Seminar in Indigenous Sport, Physical Activity, and Health taught by Dr. Janice Forsyth. This past semester, a standout project titled “Echoes of History, Seeds of Change: Understanding the Land Acknowledgement and Its Role in Moving Forward” has garnered attention for its depth and commitment to fostering meaningful change. The project was part of the larger theme of Restoring Wellness Through Land-Based Activities.
We had the privilege of speaking with Charnvir Kaur Dhillon, who, on behalf of her teammates, Caroline Do, Ghia Roy, and Harkiran Kaur Sidhu, shared insights into their project. Charnvir and her peers delved into the significance of land acknowledgments, recognizing them as more than mere formalities. Their work underscores the necessity of understanding the historical context and the contemporary considerations for Indigenous communities.
We want people to walk away with an appreciation for Indigenous Peoples, histories and cultures, as well as an appreciation for the Land.
Charnvir explained, “We want people to walk away with an appreciation for Indigenous Peoples, histories and cultures, as well as an appreciation for the Land.”
The project has not only educated students but has also inspired them to become advocates for Indigenous rights and reconciliation. By exploring the nuances of land acknowledgments, the team aims to influence how these acknowledgments are perceived and implemented across various platforms within the university and beyond.
A critical aspect of the students’ research included a detailed examination of the Great Trek, a significant event in the university’s history. The Great Trek involved students marching to secure the current campus location, which overlooks the historical displacement of Indigenous peoples from their lands. Additionally, the team focused on Pacific Spirit Park, an area that holds deep cultural significance for the Musqueam people. These lands, often taken for granted by the university community, are integral to Musqueam’s history and traditions. “Being on this Land provides many opportunities for us, and it’s about understanding how we came to be here” Charnvir says. By bringing these historical contexts into their study, the students have provided a comprehensive perspective on how land acknowledgments can be more meaningful and reflective of not only Indigenous histories, but of their current day culture and practices.
The School of Kinesiology is committed to supporting Indigenous initiatives, providing students with the resources and platforms to explore and promote Indigenous perspectives. Various initiatives and resources include Indigenous Student Advising, the Kinesiology Undergraduate Society – Black, Indigenous, People of Colour (KUS-BIPOC) Committee, which actively promotes inclusivity and cultural awareness within our community. Courses such as KIN 368, KIN468, KIN484A and KIN484B are specifically designed to delve into Indigenous studies, providing comprehensive and nuanced understandings. Finally, UBC offers numerous indigenous events, including Decolonization tours, markets, celebrations, and more.
The way forward is together.
Reflecting on the broader impact of their work, Charnvir concluded, “It’s about learning the history, understanding the implications of our arrival, and appreciation for what we have… The way forward is together.”
We extend our gratitude to the students for their dedication and passion. Their project, “Echoes of History, Seeds of Change” serves as a beacon of progress and a call to action for all members of our university community.
For more information on this and other Indigenous initiatives within the School of Kinesiology, please visit our website or contact ubc.kin@ubc.ca.