U of T Indigenous Substantiation

To uphold the integrity of material benefit and opportunities designated for Indigenous Peoples, the University of Toronto is introducing a new Indigenous Substantiation (IS) framework.

Developed in consultation and partnership with Indigenous communities, the IS process will ensure that individuals who are recruited, employed, celebrated, or receiving material benefit in opportunities where Indigenous Membership, Citizenship, or Enrolment (M/C/E) is preferred, or a determining factor for access or eligibility, can substantiate their claims.

Central to this commitment is the recognition that Indigenous substantiation is complex and shaped by specific histories, kinship systems, and community connection among First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples.

The IS framework follows on the recommendations of the Indigenous Identity Substantiation Committee, which comprised Indigenous senior leadership, staff, faculty members, librarians and students from across the University.

To read the Indigenous Substantiation Recommendations Report and Process click here.