Land Acknowledgement
As a settler and guest on this territory I would like to recognize and acknowledge that we are gathered on the unceded and occupied territory of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc here in Secwepemcúl’ecw. I am very grateful to have grown up, learned, and built relationships here and to be able to explore and appreciate this land. I am excited to continue to learn about Secwépemc culture and to use this knowledge to create safe spaces for indigenous students in my classrooms.
Scientist with a passion for nature, global travel, and culinary exploration. Always eager to learn—whether on a trail with my dog, in a classroom, or discovering a great film.
Positionality Statement
As an educator and lifelong learner, I recognize that my experiences in education have been deeply shaped by privilege, particularly in terms of my socioeconomic background, access to higher education, and social identity. Growing up in a financially stable household allowed me to fully engage in school, extracurriculars, and travel, without the burden of financial stress. These opportunities enriched my educational journey and supported my academic success in ways that many students, especially those from marginalized backgrounds, are not afforded. My tuition-free university experiences, both in Canada and abroad, further exemplify how privilege has facilitated my access to and success within educational spaces.
As a white, cisgender woman, I understand that my experiences in education have been relatively smooth compared to those of racialized backgrounds or gender-diverse individuals. While I have encountered some gender-based bias, I have not faced the systemic barriers many others do. These reflections remind me of the importance of critical self-awareness in education. As someone in a privileged position, it is my responsibility to recognize how systemic inequalities operate within learning environments and to actively work toward creating inclusive, equitable spaces where all students feel comfortable, welcome, and can thrive.