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:l艒 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:l艒 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 Fall 2026 through Summer 2027.
Registration for Fall 2026 offerings is available through 51污漫 Continuing Education using the links below.
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.
Modules and workshops
Fall module: Foundations in History, Place, and Responsibility
Dates:
- Thursday, October 15 (51污漫 Abbotsford)
- Tuesday, October 20 (51污漫 Chilliwack)
- Thursday, October 22 (51污漫 Abbotsford)
- Tuesday, October 27 (51污漫 Chilliwack)
Time: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Locations: Alternating between 51污漫 Abbotsford and 51污漫 Chilliwack campuses.
Tuition: $244
The Fall Module (12 hours) introduces participants to foundational topics that shape Indigenous–settler relations through the perspectives of Stó:l艒 Knowledge Givers, researchers, local leaders, and community members.
Across four evening sessions, participants will engage in themes including settler colonialism, Stó:l艒 history and relationships to land, archaeology and heritage, community responsibility, and the vital role of Stó:l艒 matriarchs in sustaining culture, knowledge, and continuity.
Sessions are led by Dr. Keith Thor Carlson, Tl'elktelemexw (Dr. David Schaepe), Kwelexwelsten (Brandon Gabriel), and conclude with a session co-facilitated by Xwiyalemot (Joanne Hugh) and Sel ya:al (Nancy Patricia Charlie).
Fall Workshop: Relational Learning in Practice
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2026
Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Location: 51污漫 Chilliwack Campus
Tuition: $130
The Fall Workshop (5 hours) provides an opportunity to explore reconciliation through reflection, discussion, and hands-on learning.
The day begins with Beyond Blankets: A Stó:l艒 Lands Exercise, an interactive experience that examines the impacts of colonization from a Stó:l艒 perspective. Following a 1-hour 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.