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Indigenous-led scholarship

At the University of Victoria, we are learning, listening and nourishing a community in which Indigenous knowledge systems and worldviews are valued and centred throughout our scholarly and artistic practice.

We are home to eminent Indigenous scholars. They lead us and the world in Indigenous law, governance, health, language revitalization, community resurgence, art and reconciliation. Their work addresses matters of crucial importance to communities.

Indigenous Nations, communities, collectives and organizations also have established research relationships with non-Indigenous researchers on significant issues.

At the University of Victoria, we are committed to understanding the history of Indigenous people in Canada and to a future that embraces the common wisdom and teachings of Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers. 

Qwul'sih'yah'maht (Robina Thomas), VP Indigenous

Painting by Dr. Val Napoleon

Indigenous law

UVic is internationally recognized for its scholarship in the field of Indigenous Law and Indigenous Rights. We are home to the first Indigenous law program in the world and no other law school in Canada has more Indigenous tenure-track faculty. Our Indigenous Law Research Unit (ILRU) was the first dedicated research centre on Indigenous law in Canada.

indigenous woman giving speech at First People House

Indigenous governance

UVic's School of Indigenous Governance contributes to the resurgence of Indigenous forms of leadership. These programs support the efforts of Indigenous nations to restore their land bases and ensure respect for inherent treaty rights.

person writing on a notepad

Indigenous language revitalization

For over 45 years, UVic has been a leader in supporting local and national Indigenous language revitalization efforts. We work closely with Indigenous organizations, Elders, community-based researchers, community language experts and educators.

group of people drumming

Indigenous well-being

The Centre for Indigenous Research and Community-Led Engagement (CIRCLE) promotes Indigenous well-being. CIRCLE promotes relevant and ethical research that addresses the disparities Indigenous Peoples experience.

photo of indigenous woman in front of artwork

Indigenous entrepreneurship

The National Consortium for Indigenous Economic Development (NCIED) fosters Indigenous economic development. NCIED aims to advance Indigenous economic innovation and economic health throughout Canada.

See more videos from our Indigenous research playlist on YouTube.

Open PhD grad Indigenizing business in Canada

PhD grad Indigenizing business in Canada

Emily (Williams) Salmon graduates with a PhD in International Management and Organization from UVic’s Gustavson School of Business this month. The Coast Salish researcher has already launched her...

Open Oceans as sources of law

Oceans as sources of law

As an Indigenous law student at the University of Victoria, Andrew Ambers has found himself reflecting a great deal on the laws governing the waters around him.

Open World Oceans Day experts

World Oceans Day experts

The following University of Victoria experts are available to media to discuss World Oceans Day, marked on June 8.

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View more of UVic's research impact areas.