Dear Orange Friends:
Today, Syracuse University celebrates Indigenous Peoples’ Day. It’s an opportunity to honor and recognize the history, culture, values and continued contributions of Indigenous peoples. This day inspires our acknowledgement of ancestral lands.
I was raised in Irondequoit, New York, a suburb of Rochester. Over the years I have learned about the history and influence of Indigenous peoples. Today, when I look around our campus, the impact of Indigenous peoples and these ancestral lands is all around us. It is witnessed in the Haudenosaunee flags that fly around campus. It is energized by the growing numbers of Indigenous students choosing to pursue their degrees here. It is supported by the Haudenosaunee Promise Scholars Program and the Indigenous Pathways Grant. It is nurtured by our Honwadiyenawa’sek (One who helps them) now providing care to our students at the Barnes Center. It is experienced in the traditional opening provided by Tadodaho Sidney Hill at many of our public events.
Soon, there will be another enduring expression of the contribution of Indigenous peoples to Syracuse University. Last week those walking through the Shaw Quadrangle may have noticed fencing coming down, and a new space taking shape. This will be the site of a permanent art installation—an expression of our gratitude and respect to the Onondaga Nation. It is the result of collaboration among the University, the Indigenous Students at Syracuse, Native Student Program, Ongwehonwe Alumni Association and Haudenosaunee/Indigenous alumni representatives. I am grateful to everyone involved and look forward to celebrating the culmination of this work with our community in the coming months.
Today, I am reminded of my visit with the Onondaga Nation’s Council of Chiefs and Clan Mothers in August when we discussed our special relationship and opportunities for enhanced partnership. At the end of our meeting, the Clan Mothers presented me with a sweetgrass basket that now sits on my desk. Sweetgrass, a ceremonial plant, symbolizes health, peace and spirituality. I am grateful for this gesture of lasting friendship. Once again, I was reminded that our bond is deep, and our communities are forever intertwined.
Sincerely,
Chancellor Kent Syverud