We are thankful to be welcome on these lands in friendship. The lands we are situated on are covered by the Williams Treaties and are the traditional territory of the Mississaugas, a branch of the greater Anishinaabeg Nation, including Algonquin, Ojibway, Odawa and Pottawatomi. These lands remain home to many Indigenous nations and peoples.

We acknowledge this land out of respect for the Indigenous nations who have cared for Turtle Island, also called North America, from before the arrival of settler peoples until this day. Most importantly, we acknowledge that the history of these lands has been tainted by poor treatment and a lack of friendship with the First Nations who call them home.

This history is something we are all affected by because we are all treaty people in Canada. We all have a shared history to reflect on, and each of us is affected by this history in different ways. Our past defines our present, but if we move forward as friends and allies, then it does not have to define our future.

Learn more about Indigenous Education and Cultural Services

Search the:

Apply Donate Crisis Centre

UOIT mourns the passing of Harold Ashkewe (1951-2015)

August 18, 2015

Elder Harold Ashkewe leads prayer and smudging ceremony at the opening of the UOIT-Baagwating Indigenous Student Centre (September 26, 2014).

The University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Elder Harold Ashkewe of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation.

“Harold Ashkewe was a great friend of the University of Ontario Institute of Technology and a highly respected community leader who had a positive influence on everyone around him,” said Tim McTiernan, UOIT President and Vice-Chancellor.

“As an Elder, Harold shared his knowledge and wisdom, particularly his skill in Anishshinaabe-mowin (the Ojibway language), with many students, staff and faculty at our university,” said Jill Thompson, Indigenous Cultural Advisor, at the UOIT-Baagwating Indigenous Student Centre (UBISC). “We are grateful for both the support he generously offered to our students and for the community legacy he left.”

The university was greatly honoured to have Elder Harold Ashkewe lead the opening of the UBISC in September 2014, and as well, conduct a smudging ceremony.

The university extends its sincere condolences to the Ashkewe Family, the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and Harold’s many friends and admirers.

More news

Sallie and Bob Baun attending a Donor Appreciation Reception at Windfields Farm (June 19, 2014).

Ontario Tech mourns the passing of Bob Baun, hockey legend, honorary doctorate recipient and longtime university supporter

image of the signing of the memorandum of understanding between kinectrics and ontario tech university.

Kinectrics Inc. and Ontario Tech University establish partnership to advance nuclear research and innovation

Spending summer vacation competing on the international stage: Ontario Tech students representing Canada at a World Championship event

image of Ontario Tech researcher Dr. Carolyn McGregor talks to elementary students at Australia's Baulkham Hills North Public School.

Ontario Tech researcher inspires young students during visit to her former elementary school in Australia