MEMORIAL UNIVERSITY APPROVES INDIGENOUS VERIFICATION POLICY

The Board of Regents at Memorial University of Newfoundland has approved a new Indigenous Verification Policy, reinforcing that Indigenous collectives - not the university - determine citizenship and membership.

The policy affirms that Indigenous-specific opportunities at Memorial must be held by Indigenous people, with eligibility determined by recognized Indigenous collectives rather than the institution itself.

University officials say the policy was developed by and with Indigenous communities and reflects principles of self-determination and respect for Indigenous rights-holding governing bodies.

The policy received support from multiple Indigenous governments and organizations, including:

- Innu Nation

- Nunatsiavut Government

- Assembly of First Nations Quebec-Labrador

- Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami

The move follows several years of engagement, including 26 Indigenous community sessions across the province as part of Memorial’s 2021–26 Strategic Framework for Indigenization.

Under the new policy, applicants for Indigenous-specific opportunities will follow one of three verification pathways:

- Pathway A: Submission of primary documentation confirming connection to a recognized Indigenous collective

- Pathway B: Submission of secondary documentation confirming connection

- Pathway C: Reserved for specific cases of displacement resulting from assimilationist colonial policies

Recognized Indigenous collectives are those federally recognized under Section 35 of the Canadian Constitution or recognized by their federally recognized neighbours.

The policy is not retroactive and will apply only to Indigenous-specific opportunities moving forward. Implementation will occur in phases, with guidance and supports provided to students and staff.

University leadership says the policy strengthens accountability, protects Indigenous-specific opportunities, and aligns institutional practices with reconciliation commitments.