Ted Rogers School of Management Indigenous Healing Garden (Toronto Metropolitan University)
The Ted Roger’s School of Management (TRSM) at Toronto Metropolitan University is responding to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action by committing to meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities for economic development. The School is also demonstrating leadership with their Indigenous Initiatives, an Indigenous healing garden (redesign of their rooftop courtyard), installation of Indigenous art throughout the School, and sharing stories and learning between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in Canada and globally. The School states: “We aim to transform the Ted Rogers School courtyard into an Indigenous-themed greenspace and learning space with plant medicines known to improve physical, mental and spiritual health and decrease anxiety.” (Source: TRSM).
(Sheila is an advisor helping to initiate the healing garden project, including the weekly summer conversation series, where she hosted ‘Planting New Seeds: A Conversation About Indigenous Healing Gardens’. with guests Dr. Wendy Makoons Geniusz and Dr. Diana Beresford-Kroeger).
Indigenous Healing Garden
This is the current condition of the upper level outdoor courtyard space at the Ted Rogers School of Management, in the heart of the downtown core (Dundas St. W., close to Yonge St.). Ideas for the garden and the interior spaces of the School are being explored this summer and fall, beginning with a webinar conversation series (including one hosted by Sheila in July). The intention is that an online design workshop will be held with the Toronto Metropolitan University Indigenous community and others supporting this work, to guide the design of the garden space, as well as programming and stewardship plans.