In celebration of National Indigenous History Month, Metroland introduces readers to 30 Indigenous people who are making a difference. Meet them all online.
Melissa Star Ireland is the new director of Indigenous relations at the University of Waterloo. Prior to this post, Ireland worked as part of the Indigenous relations and outreach team at Qualia Counselling Services and as director of Indigenous initiatives at Wilfrid Laurier University.
TELL US ABOUT WHAT YOU DO/YOUR CALLING? WHY IS THAT YOUR PASSION?
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
“I’m newly in the role of director, Indigenous relations at the University of Waterloo. I love learning and working in a university environment and in a space that values education. I’ve been so glad to learn about the existing work on campus surrounding Indigeneity, anti-racism, decolonization, inclusion, and anti-oppression, which was not happening at this level 20 years ago during my time as an undergraduate. As an alumnus of the university, I’m thrilled to be back on campus and able to use my acquired skills and gifts to connect with others while working to lead strategic initiatives, and implementation which will remove barriers for Indigenous Peoples as well as work to address some of the ongoing legacies of colonialism that are still occurring within systems and structures.”
WHAT’S ONE THING ABOUT YOUR NEW JOB THAT YOU ARE EXCITED ABOUT?
“The University’s Office of Indigenous Relations has just created its Indigenous strategic plan. I’m excited to support this important work by helping to launch the plan, as well as work to implement measurable uptake and growth within faculties, departments, and academic support units that are specific to each area. For me, working with a team to create practical and accessible approaches to Indigenous inclusion is a dream job.”
TELL US WHAT DRIVES YOU.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW
“Community drives me. Continuing to co-create a holistically supportive environment with the Indigenous campus community can allow room for positive spaces of belonging and acceptance. I am thrilled to be working in an environment where I do not have to check my Indigenous identity at (the) door, and I want that experience for others.”
IF NON-INDIGENOUS CANADIANS LEARN ONE THING ABOUT INDIGENOUS HISTORY THIS MONTH, WHAT SHOULD THAT BE?
“If non-Indigenous people can move through their learning not only with their mind, but through their hearts and actions, real change is possible. One type of engagement is through gaining knowledge with the mind. Yet, I challenge folks to come out to also engage the heart by attending events or activities hosted by Indigenous people. While connecting this way, meaningful and authentic relationships are possible. It’s important to build relationships to understand where the needs are.”
