The University of Victoria has officially opened a new Indigenous law wing, offering students a dedicated space to study Indigenous legal traditions alongside Canadian law.

The new wing includes indoor and outdoor classrooms, ceremonial spaces, an Elders’ garden, and areas supporting clinical programs and research.

“The new Indigenous law wing at UVic is a world-leading example of how education can advance reconciliation,” said Jessie Sunner, B.C. Minister of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.

“It creates a space rooted in Indigenous traditions where students can learn and grow, preparing them to lead in a justice system that reflects trauma-informed practice and the diversity of our province. By bringing Indigenous legal traditions into our justice system, we’re helping future lawyers build the skills and understanding they need to meaningfully support all communities they serve.”

The wing will also house the Indigenous Law Research Unit, the Environmental Law Centre, and the Access to Justice Centre for Excellence.

Provincial officials say the new space is meant to support reconciliation and ensure future legal professionals are trained to understand diverse legal systems and trauma-informed practices.

UVic already hosts the world’s first joint JD/JID degree, launched in 2018, which trains students in both Canadian common law and Indigenous legal traditions through classroom learning and community-based fieldwork.

The Province says the new facility responds to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action 50, which calls for establishing Indigenous law institutes.

It also aligns with B.C.’s Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan and broader efforts to support Indigenous self-determination in education and justice.

To learn more, visit Government of British Columbia.