The National Reconciliation Building Forum 2025: A Partnership for Reflection on the TRC’s Calls to Action

The 2025 National Building Reconciliation Forum occurred on May 14–15 at the First Nations University of Canada and the University of Regina. This event convened university leaders, Indigenous scholars, and community members to reflect on a decade since the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action.

The forum featured keynote addresses from prominent figures, including Eugene Arcand, Dr. Marie Wilson, Chief Wilton Littlechild, and Dr. Verna St. Denis. Their discussions concentrated on themes of relational accountability, the necessity for systemic change in post-secondary education, and the continued contributions to Truth and Reconciliation efforts within educational institutions. Attendees benefited from informative sessions and cultural events, such as a traditional hide-scraping workshop, as well as performances by William Prince and Zoe Roy, all of which underscored the significance of Indigenous knowledge and artistic expression in the reconciliation process.

On May 13, the First Nations University of Canada and the University of Regina co-hosted a welcoming reception at FNUniv, where renowned Indigenous Chef Kirk Ermine from Sturgeon Lake First Nation in Northern Saskatchewan presented a selection of canapés, each accompanied by narratives about the traditional ingredients used. Participants had the opportunity to engage with authors Dr. Blair Stonechild and Dr. Marie Wilson during a book signing session.

Overall, the Forum highlighted the collective responsibility of educational institutions to actively listen, collaborate, and implement meaningful actions toward reconciliation.

The First Nations University of Canada and the University of Regina express sincere gratitude to all speakers, performers, and participants for their contributions of insights and knowledge, as well as to Universities Canada/Universités Canada and the sponsors for their support in making this event possible.