Program Overview
Introduction to the Indigenous Relations Training Program
The Indigenous Relations Training Program (IRTP) is a unique and immersive learning experience offered by the University of Calgary. This program aims to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of Indigenous Ways of Knowing, Doing, Connecting, and Being, as well as the historical context of Indigenous people in Canada. The IRTP is designed to equip individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to build fruitful relationships with Indigenous communities and contribute to meaningful reconciliation.
About the Program
The IRTP has been providing professional and personal development to students, professionals, and community members since 2009. The program is facilitated by Indigenous program facilitators and Elders, ensuring a truly immersive learning experience. The program is offered four times a year, in February, May, August, and November, and is open to individuals of all backgrounds.
Program Cost
The cost of the program varies depending on the participant's status:
- UCalgary Students: $265.00
- Non-UCalgary Students: $395.00
- UCalgary Staff: $395.00
- UCalgary Alumni: $525.00
- Registered Charity: $525.00
- Professionals and Governmental: $1,050.00
Payment and Registration
Payment can be made by VISA, Mastercard, or American Express. Registration is processed on a first-come, first-served basis and is open until the session is full or the Friday before the program start date.
Instructors
The IRTP is facilitated by a team of experienced instructors, including:
- Tapisa Kilabuk: An Inuk woman from the Qikiqtaaluk region of Nunavut, with a background in International Indigenous Studies.
- Art Cunningham: A retired Indigenous Relations Practitioner with over 35 years of experience building positive relationships with Indigenous communities.
- Anne Harding, MA, CP3: The owner of Forum Community Relations, a consulting company dedicated to catalyzing better communities through Indigenous relations and community engagement.
- Gerald Ratt/Ai’ssoo, BA, MA: A child of a survivor of Indian Residential Schools, Two-Spirit, Woodland Cree, and a member of the Lac La Ronge First Nation.
- Noella Wells/Ootaikimmiakii, BEd, MEd: The former Iniikokaan (Painted Buffalo Lodge) Centre Director of Bow Valley College, with a background in education and research.
Course Modules
The IRTP consists of eight interactive learning modules, each three hours long, covering the following topics:
Indigenous Ways of Knowing
Learn how to describe knowledge production systems in Indigenous societies and their interrelatedness between human beings and the natural world.
Historical Overview of Indigenous People in Canada
Gain an understanding of the origins of Indigenous people in Canada and recognize the impact of social and political events on Indigenous-non-Indigenous relations.
Métis History
Understand who the Métis are, as well as the origins of the fur trade with Métis communities in the Red River Settlement and its importance to Canadian history.
Contemporary Trends of the Métis People in Canada
Explore current issues, challenges, and opportunities affecting Métis participation in Canada's education system, employment sector, and political and economic landscape.
Introduction to Inuit Culture and History
Learn about the unique geography, culture, and history of the Inuit people in Canada, the processes of change that have shaped the region's development, and the effects of those processes in historical and contemporary contexts.
Contemporary Inuit Reality
Learn about and understand contemporary Inuit realities, for Inuit in the remote northern communities as well as urban Inuit.
Resource Development in Indigenous Communities
Discuss various corporate approaches to Indigenous communities, including the "Duty to Consult and Accommodate", and the concept of “meaningful consultation” with communities in the resource development context and beyond.
Blanket Exercise and Discussion
In the final module, understand the implications of the "demographic revolution" that has been and is currently taking place in Indigenous communities, and discuss the direct and indirect impacts of federal and provincial legislation on Indigenous people.
Funding Support
For Students
Check out the Student Activities Fund or the Students' Union Funding and Awards page for potential funding opportunities.
For Professionals
Organizations may qualify for up to two-thirds of professional development funding for staff through the Canada-Alberta Job Grant (CAJG), a collaborative grant program offered by the Alberta and Federal Governments.
Conclusion
The Indigenous Relations Training Program is a unique and valuable opportunity for individuals to gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous Ways of Knowing, Doing, Connecting, and Being, and to develop the skills necessary to build fruitful relationships with Indigenous communities. With its experienced instructors, comprehensive course modules, and flexible payment and registration options, the IRTP is an excellent choice for anyone looking to contribute to meaningful reconciliation and advance their personal and professional development.