Learning outcomes
Foundations offerings are designed to support participants in:
- Building a grounded understanding of Indigenous–settler relations and reconciliation
- Engaging in place-based learning rooted in Stó:lō Téméxw
- Developing skills in critical reflection and respectful dialogue
- Exploring personal and collective responsibilities within reconciliation work
- Learning alongside others in a supportive, respectful environment
The Xwelítem Siyáya Foundations program is a 45-hour, non-credit learning journey for participants seeking to deepen their understanding of Indigenous–settler relations, responsibilities, and reconciliation. Rooted in Stó:lō Téméxw, the program combines place-based learning, experiential engagement, and critical reflection through a series of Modules and Workshops offered throughout the academic year (three semesters).
Program structure
The Foundations program consists of:
- Three Modules (30 hours total)
- Three Workshops (15 hours total)
Participants register for individual Modules and Workshops as they are offered. While participants may begin the program at any point in the offering cycle, completing both the seasonal Module and Workshop together is recommended for a more connected learning experience. Full participation in all sessions associated with a registered Module or Workshop is expected.
Participants who successfully complete all 45 hours will receive a Xwelítem Siyáya Foundations Microcredential.
Program schedule
Modules and Workshops will be offered from Winter through Fall 2027.
Registration for Winter 2027 offerings is available through UFV Continuing Education links that will be added to this web page in early-December.
Organizations sponsoring a participant’s tuition must complete the CE Sponsoring Agency Approval form before the participant registers online.
Questions about sponsorship can be directed to continuingeducation@ufv.ca.
Those looking to be notified when registration is open can email parc@ufv.ca to be added to our email list.
Modules and workshops
Winter module: Foundations in History, Place, and Responsibility
Dates:
- Tuesday, February 23 (UFV Abbotsford)
- Thursday, February 25 (UFV Chilliwack)
- Tuesday, March 2 (UFV Chilliwack)
- Thursday, March 4 (UFV Abbotsford)
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Locations: Split between UFV Abbotsford and UFV Chilliwack campuses.
Tuition: $315
The Winter Module (12 hours) introduces participants to foundational topics that shape Indigenous–settler relations through the perspectives of Stó:lō Knowledge Givers, researchers, local leaders, and community members.
Across four evening sessions, participants will engage in themes including settler colonialism, Stó:lō history and relationships to land, archaeology and heritage, community responsibility, and the vital role of Stó:lō matriarchs in sustaining culture, knowledge, and continuity.
Sessions are led by Dr. Keith Thor Carlson, Tl'elktelemexw (Dr. David Schaepe), Xwiyalemot (Joanne Hugh) and Kwelexwelsten (Brandon Gabriel).
Winter Workshop: Relational Learning in Practice
Date: Saturday, February 27, 2027
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: UFV Chilliwack Campus
Tuition: $150
The Winter Workshop (5 hours) provides an opportunity to explore reconciliation through reflection, discussion, and hands-on learning.
The day begins with Beyond Blankets: A Stó:lō Lands Exercise, an interactive experience that examines the impacts of colonization from a Stó:lō perspective. Following a BYO lunch/networking break, participants will then take part in a Cedar Weaving workshop led by Gracie Kelly, exploring the cultural significance of cedar while learning through practice, relationship, and shared experience.