About Us

Bringing people together through shared experiences, cultural understanding, and connection.

About Us

Bringing people together through shared experiences, cultural understanding, and connection.

About Us

Bringing people together through shared experiences, cultural understanding, and connection.

Welcome to the Wampum Learning Lodge

Welcome to the Wampum Learning Lodge (WLL), an intercultural teaching, learning and gathering space at Western University. The Lodge was designed with Indigenous epistemologies and pedagogies at its heart, creating a place where Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities can come together to learn, share and build relationships.

logo for the wampum learning lodge

Our Story

The Wampum Learning Lodge opened its doors in 2022 as part of Western University’s commitment to advancing Indigenization, decolonization and reconciliation. It serves as a home for Indigenous initiatives and a hub for collaboration between Western and Indigenous communities in the Deshkaan Ziibiing territory.

All events and activities at the Lodge advance Western’s Indigenous Strategic Plan (2016) and contribute to Towards Western at 150 (2021), Theme 2: People Community and Culture – Advancing Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.

Vision and Mission

The Wampum Learning Lodge serves as a home for Indigenous initiatives by supporting programs and services that center Indigenous voices and knowledge, while acting as a venue for Indigenous pedagogies to advance traditional Indigenous ways of knowing across disciplines. Furthermore, the space operates as a touchstone for community engagement to build fostering partnerships and knowledge-sharing with Indigenous Peoples and communities. The Lodge is a place of connectivity and creating space for everyone at Western who shares a commitment to reconciliation and diversity.

What We Offer

The Lodge hosts and supports:

Cultural Events and Ceremonies

For teachings, Round Dances and seasonal gatherings.

Educational Programming

Including invited speakers and educational days.

Community Programming

To connect the Indigenous campus community to the local Indigenous community.

Elder-in-Residence Program

For campus consultation and advice.

Bookable Spaces

For Indigenous-focused events, courses and meetings.

Dedicated Spaces

For Indigenous students' wellness and studying.

Community Connections

Community connection is the foundation of the Wampum Learning Lodge. Our work is guided by the understanding that education is not only about knowledge, but also about relationships. By establishing, maintaining and strengthening ties with local First Nations and Indigenous organizations, we create spaces where Indigenous voices and perspectives are honored and integrated into campus life. These relationships are essential for reconciliation and for building a university environment that reflects Indigenous ways of knowing, being and doing. 

Three Pillars of Connection

1. Collaborative Partnerships

We work alongside local First Nations and Indigenous organizations to co-create opportunities for cultural exchange and shared learning.

2. Bridging Campus and Community

The Lodge serves as a connector, ensuring that Indigenous knowledge systems are not only respected but actively included in academic and social spaces.

3. Cultural Programming

Through events, workshops and ceremonies, we bring community members and campus together to learn, celebrate and grow.

Indigenous Student Support

The Wampum Learning Lodge is a welcoming space for Indigenous students to connect with local cultures and community members. We also have dedicated spaces for Indigenous students for their wellness and reflection, reserved spaces for studying and meeting rooms and a kitchen stocked with snacks and supplies. The Elder-in-Residence program is also available to Indigenous students, offering weekly cultural counselling and guidance.

Please note, the Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) is a separate team dedicated to Indigenous student services and supports. Visit them for more information on supports for Indigenous students.

Explore the Lodge

Take a virtual tour of the Wampum Learning Lodge and learn about the Indigenous worldviews that guided its design.

Learn more

Meet the Team Book a Space User Guidelines

Contact, Location & Booking

Location: 1137 Western Road Suite 1200, Western University, London, ON

Email: wampumlearninglodge@uwo.ca

Phone: 519-661-2111 ext 84563