20 Indigenization and Institutional Interconnections

Indigenization in practice is deeply grounded in the traditions and cultural protocols of the traditional landholders that an institution is built upon; it is informed by the diversity of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit of Canada.

Figure 2.2 provides the institutional interconnections to Indigenization. It shows that individuals within the institution have specific roles and responsibilities that are interconnected to their unit/department/centre goals and purpose. The focus and practices of the department are then influenced by the institutional leadership, such as direct supervisors, senior executive and other community partners. The relationships that an institution, unit, and staff have with local Indigenous communities and organizations within and outside the institution are important. In fact, Indigenization of cannot occur without these critical relationships informing each step and the entire educational process.