Editor's Introduction

The University of Victoria, in many ways, is a special place. It is one of the few universities in Canada where Indigenous issues are taught, discussed, and debated with the attention and care they deserve—and thanks to a cadre of excellent faculty and instructors, the debate has been a respectful one. The sizeable Indigenous faculty presence on campus, as well as a variety of programming options has created a healthy space for Indigenous scholarship. Perhaps one of the most important aspects of UVic is the constant acknowledgement that UVic is situated on the lands of the Coast and Straits Salish people. The presence of local Indigenous peoples—students, faculty, staff, and community members—as well as Indigenous peoples from further afield, makes for an enriching intellectual and social environment for those of us who study Indigenous issues here. In this atmosphere, learning extends to places outside of the classroom and provides for dynamic relationships with new people from different places with different perspectives. The University of Victoria has, quite deservedly, also developed a reputation as a world leader in Indigenous Studies, something that I have been reminded of at the many conferences I have attended across the continent. It is well known for producing some groundbreaking scholarship and attracting world-class students.