Campfire Discussion

Red Deer Polytechnic’s new Strategic Plan, RDP 2030: Productivity and Social Impact, outlines six Drivers with specific Indigenous objectives for Learner Impact, Enhanced Partnerships, and Innovation Ecosystem Spaces. The institution’s commitment to individual and corporate reconciliation and Indigenization is woven throughout RDP’s leadership team, Equity Diversity and Inclusion strategy, and Reconcili-Action Plan, prompting RDP to braid Indigenous Ways of Knowing together with programs for student success, building bridges, and applied learning experiences. The 2023 appointment of a Dean, Indigenous Initiatives, and the recent establishment of a permanent Indigenous Advisory Committee comprised of Indigenous faculty, staff, students, and allies demonstrate RDP’s desire to include Indigenous perspectives in leadership and decision-making. Recognizing the post-secondary responsibilities within the TRCC Calls to Action and United Nations’ Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, RDP has chosen to partner with First Nations Colleges to offer language courses and cultural experiences to learners from various programs, recognizing the importance of Indigenous delivery in traditional contexts. Next steps include expanding the Indigenous Initiatives department to include academic leadership positions and an Indigenous partnership lead, as well as expanded student supports. Prioritizing learning and collaboration, RDP’s strategy is the foundation of long-term, reciprocal, respectful relationships inclusive of the shared culture and distinct traditions of many Indigenous nations.