After several years of shifting locations, the ELC has securely landed in our new offices, and it feels like home. We have always appreciated the Faculty of Law’s support and spaces allocated to us throughout the Fraser Building, but we are grateful to be nested in the new Indigenous laws wing.
In this thoughtful and purpose-built space, the ELC can operate more cohesively as a team. We are one of several teams, sharing this area with our colleagues from the Indigenous Law Research Unit, the Business Law Clinic, and the Access to Justice Centre for Excellence. Our offices are grouped together around a spacious, enclosed area that fosters collaboration and connection – among ourselves and also with students and clients. There is a private meeting room, a board room for larger meetings, and soundproofing to ensure client confidentiality has made a meaningful difference.
A ceremony on Oct 8 marked the official opening of the new wing, and it was a moving celebration. Many speakers emphasized to the crowd of faculty and staff, students, construction and architecture crews and other invited guests the importance of having a purpose-built learning centre for Indigenous laws. What began years ago as an intention has resulted in a beautiful and respectful space that honours the laws and people who have long stewarded this land. Attendees heard about the deep care taken in the design and construction process of the new wing and we’re reminded of the important work ahead in upholding and revitalizing Indigenous laws and legal traditions for generations to come.
