Learn more about the ISA
The history of the ISA
The ISA, originally known as the uOttawa Aboriginal Student Association, was founded in 1985 by Claudette Commanda and has since evolved into the organization it is today. In 2022, then Co-Presidents Quanah Traviss and Leronhenehtha Lazore played a pivotal role in gaining recognition for the ISA as a Recognized Student Government, bringing renewed attention and support to the association.
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What’s the ISA’s vision?
It is our vision that through the love and respect for ourselves and others, we shall promote and amplify the voices, perspectives, and initiatives of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students within the university community.
The core mandate of the ISA
The Indigenous Students’ Association mandate is to strengthen the voices of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit undergraduate and graduate students who attend the University of Ottawa. Through social, cultural, and recreational activities and advocacy, the ISA shall promote awareness of Indigenous histories and cultures within the university as a whole.
The current Co-Presidents missions for 2026-2027
The mission of the current Co-Presidents, Kim Mantha and Katelyn Bruyere, is to unite Indigenous students on campus, increase the ISA’s outreach, and create links across academic programs to better advocate for Indigenous students at UOttawa. This year, the Co-Presidents are focused on updating ISA governing documents and expanding the ISA internal governance.
The ISA role on campus
The ISA is a vital pillar of support and cultural celebration for Indigenous students at the University of Ottawa. The ISA engages students through cultural and educational workshops, gatherings, challenges as well as surveys. The ISA continues to evolve, it stands as a beacon of unity, ensuring that Indigenous voices are heard, respected and celebrated on campus and beyond.
The ISA is a welcoming
The ISA’s aims to make sure that people who are coming from communities far away, maybe even up north, have a space where they’re not going to feel judged at all. The Indigenous Student Association wants to make sure that everyone feels welcome, whether you’re Métis, whether you’re First Nations, Inuit, whether you’re reconnecting or you are an ally… we aim to see people the same.
Who can be an ISA member?
There shall be two kinds of members of the ISA: Indigenous Students, and Allies of the ISA
Indigenous Student Members shall be any student at the University of Ottawa who self-identifies as Indigenous and/or is registered with the Mashkiwazìwogamig Indigenous Resource Centre. *Indigenous refers to all First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students attending the University of Ottawa. Upon joining Indigenous Students shall be granted a vote and opportunity to contribute in a decision-making capacity.
***Interested in joining the Indigenous Student Association? Fill out this form and you will get more information on future meetings, events, and workshops.
Recognizing the importance of allyship and the role it has to play in decolonization, Allies of the ISA is to be a position open to any registered student at the University of Ottawa. This is to keep the long-standing tradition within the ISA to allow our closest friends and allies to be functioning members of our community. Allies of the ISA shall be accepted into the group should 3 or more Indigenous members vouch for their continued presence and impact within the ISA community, as well as the demonstration of shared or similar values with those of the group. Allies of the ISA are to be welcome at all events and meetings, but will not hold a vote or decision-making ability. For more details please consult our governing documents.