Lands Acknowledgement
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.
We acknowledge the 3 reserves in close proximity to London, Ontario: Munsee-Delaware Nation, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation and Oneida Nation of the Thames.
The more I learn of cultures other than my own, the more I am struck by our overwhelming similarities. The language and experiences are different, sometimes profoundly so, but we share common principles. As practitioners in the Recreation and Leisure Industry, we serve to provide wellbeing to individuals, communities, and the environment. Wellness is a holistic endeavor of the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual, coming together in alignment. These elements exist in traditional FNMI knowledge, often depicted on Healing and Medicine Wheels, expressed as ingredients for a healthy, well-balanced life. Art, music, games, play and sport – all recreation and leisure – I hope that we use these to promote understanding, assist in healing and aspire to wellness for all.
Linda Whitehead
