Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge and honour the Anishanaabe, Huadenoshaunnee, and Lanape people of Southwestern Ontario as the traditional owners and custodians of the land and waterways on which Fanshawe College is located. Further, we acknowledge the cultural diversity of all Indigenous peoples, and pay respect to the Elders, past, present, and future.
We celebrate the continuous living cultures of the original inhabitants of Canada, and acknowledge the important contributions Indigenous people have, and continue to make, in Canadian society. The College respects and acknowledges our Indigenous students, staff, Elders, and Indigenous visitors who come from many nations.
As we begin our exploration of biology, it is important to recognize our relationship with the land on which we live and learn. The more we learn about the natural world, the more we come to understand how deeply disconnected many of us have become from it. I acknowledge that to truly reconnect and learn to care for our land, we must follow the lead of Indigenous peoples who have maintained a profound and respectful relationship with nature.
As someone who deeply values outdoor recreation, such as hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and camping, I am continuously reminded of the beauty and significance of this land. Engaging with nature through these activities enhances my appreciation for its wonders and the need for its protection. I commit to treating nature with care and respect and hope to foster a relationship with the land that honours its original caretakers.
As we learn about life throughout this course, let’s also work to understand our place within it – as members of a shared living world.
