Over the years, the University of Manitoba (UM) has sought to incorporate Indigenous ways in convocation ceremonies. In fall 2022, in consultation with members of the UM Indigenous community and a committee led by the Vice President (Indigenous), UM embarked on a process of consultation, reflection, and ceremony to amend the academic dress of the UM Chancellor Anne Mahon and President Michael Benarroch. After this process, UM engaged Indigenous artists to update the chancellor’s and president’s convocation regalia. The robes were worn for the first time at the 2023 spring convocation, and the reception they received was all positive. The designs not only honor the first peoples of these lands but support a graduation experience that feels more welcoming to UM Indigenous students, families, staff, faculty, and alumni, and lets them know that they should feel comfortable and proud wearing cultural and ceremonial attire, such as ribbon skirts, to convocation ceremonies and other UM events. Our efforts to share the news about the new regalia was a success and helped all audiences understand our commitment to reconciliation.
From the Judges
Consulting with members of the Indigenous community and updating the convocation regalia shows a true commitment to reconciliation. While not every school can replicate this kind of initiatives, UM did a good job, while not wildly overspending.
