荔枝视频

Boulders placed on high ground at the 荔枝视频鈥檚 Spy Hill campus tell a powerful story. These rocks honour the land鈥檚 deep cultural significance to Indigenous peoples, serving as a reminder of a place that has been vital for generations.

Historically, Spy Hill was much more than just a high point. It was a crucial communication site for Indigenous peoples, offering a vantage point to observe vast stretches of surrounding lands, send signals and create connections across communities and landscapes.

In spring 2025, Elders from the 荔枝视频 Circle of Advisors, and other knowledge keepers from this territory, gathered at the hilltop for a pipe ceremony, led by Virgle Stephens and his ceremonial helper Ollie Benjamin of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. Using aspen branches, they carefully chose the exact spots where the boulders would rest, marking the land with respect and intention.

Recognizing Traditional Knowledge Keepers

鈥淭he placement of the boulders reflects our commitment to honour Indigenous peoples鈥� stories, spirit, knowledge and traditions,鈥� says Dr. Michael Hart, vice-provost (Indigenous engagement). 

鈥淭his site has been a place of connection for generations, and we continue to recognize its importance today.鈥�

The installation of the boulders also marks an important step in putting the Spy Hill campus鈥檚  (LRDP) into action. Developed with guidance from Traditional Knowledge Keepers of the land 鈥� including Virgle Stephens, Ollie Benjamin, Mina Powderface and Evangeline Benjamin of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation, Diane Meguinis from the Tsuut鈥檌na Nation, and Doreen Bergum of the M茅tis Nation of Alberta Region 3 鈥�  the LRDP emphasizes preserving the natural landscape while creating spaces for teaching and learning, research, reflection, and mutual respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities.

鈥淭his is a meaningful step in including Indigenous history into the physical development of our campus,鈥� says Stacy Christensen, associate vice-president (facilities development and sustainability). 鈥淚t ensures the land鈥檚 story remains a visible and valued part of our environment.鈥�

The boulders stand as a powerful reminder, not only of the land鈥檚 sacred past but also of the university鈥檚 ongoing commitment to walk the path towards reconciliation.