The World Council of Indigenous Peoples define Indigenous peoples as ”people, living in countries which have populations composed of differing ethnic or racial groups, who are descendants of the earliest populations living in the area and who do not as a group control the national government of the countries within which they live.”
Indigenous Studies at the University of Lethbridge is dedicated to community-engaged scholarship, and research of the priorities and aspirations of Indigenous peoples in Canada and throughout the world. Within the department, Indigenous and non-Indigenous students have the opportunity to learn and think about Indigenous knowledges in creative, transformative and critical ways. The department offers courses that engender a rigorous and respectful understanding of Indigenous peoples’ languages, knowledges, cultures, histories, politics, arts, intellectual traditions, and research methodologies.
Department Highlights
Indigenous Studies Department 50th Anniversary 2nd Annual Indigenous Studies Research Symposium
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
We invite researchers at all levels to submit presentation proposals for the Indigenous Studies Research Symposium on April 8-9, 2026.
Research done by, with, and for Indigenous Peoples is prioritized. Presentations may be interdisciplinary and should centre on or draw from Indigenous knowledge, methodologies, and ways of relating. We welcome papers, posters, individual/group presenters, artistic works, and other mediums.
Please email Aspen and Aysha at indigenous.symposium@uleth.ca with a short abstract, your contact information, department, research level (undergrad, grad, or factuly), presentation description, and any technical or space needs (e.g., projector, computer, whiteboard, studio/stage space, etc.).
Submit proposals for consideration by February 23, 2026
For more information:
indigenous.symposium@uleth.ca
New Indigenous Studies Instagram Account
Keep up-to date on events and other happenings in the Indigenous Studies department by following our Instagram Account.
Shining Student Niihtaapookaa (Old Man River Child) Tatiana Weasel Moccasin
At the University of Lethbridge, Niihtaapookaa (Old Man River Child), Tatiana Weasel Moccasin has worked as a research assistant, travelled to Mexico for school, and embraced opportunities to enhance her creativity through creative writing and Indigenous art courses. Her future aspirations include becoming a teacher in Indigenous studies and language arts while continuing to advocate for Indigenous voices in education.
"I have so many great experiences here at the University. I loved the friends I've made, the club I joined (All My Relations) and the amazing professors I've been honoured to work with."
Shining Student Sii'piapaikkana (Night Shining) Dakota Wadsworth
Sii'piapaikkana (Night Shining), Dakota Wadsworth's (ISSC '24) time at the University of Lethbridge is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the strength of community. As a proud First Nations student and single mother, she has overcome financial barriers and personal challenges to excel in her studies, all while being inspired by, and inspiring those around her. Her story as a shining example of breaking through barriers to achieve dreams and create a brighter future.
"I used to be so scared to come to the University. But when I got here, I met some professors who were kind, encouraging, and truly there to assist when they could."
Spirit Prize winner Zoe Buckskin mixes tradition with personal expression
Blackfoot artist Zoe Buckskin's art practice encompasses both traditional and contemporary forms of art, blending her creativity with Blackfoot artistic traditions.
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Indigenous Studies student and veteran Kendrick Fox found purpose in military service
Naatoiipiksi (Holy Hitter) Kendrick Fox served in Afghanistan in the Canadian Armed Forces following Sept. 11
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Preserving the past for the future with Dhillon alumna Ashley Ens
A proud member of the Gwich’in Nation, Ashley Rae Ens completed both her Bachelor of Management (2016) and Master of Management (2021) at the Dhillon School of Business.
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