September 30, 2024.
On this National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, we reflect on the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples and acknowledge the history that has shaped our country.
Acsenda is proud to share President Neil Mort’s message on our ongoing commitment to reconciliation, including the integration of Indigenous perspectives in our curriculum and community efforts.
On behalf of Acsenda School of Management, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the significance of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples as we recognize National Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30, 2024. This day reminds us of the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples and the importance of acknowledging the events that continue to shape our society.
Meaningful reconciliation involves our ongoing commitment to sharing the history and enduring impact of colonialism, particularly in the business environments and communities we are part of. At Acsenda, we have integrated Indigenous perspectives into our curriculum, encouraging new ways of thinking about organizational success. A key component of this effort is our Managing Decolonization and Diversity course, which has now been part of our program for a full year. Through this course, students are not only learning to deliver thoughtful land acknowledgments, but they are also reflecting on the struggles and endurance of Indigenous peoples.
Throughout this past month, Acsenda has facilitated several meaningful activities for our staff and students. These included visiting the Bill Reid Gallery and a student storytelling circle led by our Indigenous Elder and Instructor, Charlene Leon. We also welcomed UBC researcher Meaghan Efford, who shared her research on the Tsleil-Waututh Nation and the Burrard Inlet’s aquatic ecosystems prior to European settlement. Additionally, our Bachelor of Hospitality students highlighted success stories of Indigenous-led and themed businesses that celebrate rich Indigenous traditions in food and tourism.
I would like to extend a special and heartfelt thank you to Bernadette Spence, CEO of the Vancouver Aboriginal Child and Family Services Society (VACFSS). Bernadette has guided our reconciliation efforts over the past two years, helping us establish a plan and actions to support decolonization and the development of Indigenous awareness and relationships at both the program and institutional levels at Acsenda.
I also want to thank the Acsenda team—including Garima Yadav, Anna Tur, MPA, BBA, CPHR, Tania Castillo, and Azra Semanic—for their leadership, enthusiasm, and commitment to organizing Indigenous-themed activities on campus this month. I am deeply grateful to everyone who has bravely shared their stories and contributed to this important work.
As we continue on this journey, let us honor the legacy of those who came before us and commit to fostering respectful relationships, learning, and understanding. Together, we can contribute to the reconciliation journey and support the healing process for all communities.
Wishing you all a meaningful journey of learning and appreciation for the diversity and lands that we are privileged to live and work on.
Dr. Neil Mort
President, Acsenda School of Management
Together, let’s continue to listen, learn, and build a more inclusive future.
#ConnectingPeopleWithProfessions
INTERNATIONAL THINKING. INDIVIDUAL FOCUS
