Ziibiing provides a gathering place to learn, reflect, and celebrate Indigenous history and culture. Named using the Anishinaabemowin word for “river,” Ziibiing marks the path of Taddle Creek, a buried stream running under the St. George campus.
Ziibiing grew out of the first call to action in Answering the Call: Wecheehetowin the Final Report of the Steering Committee for the U of T Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada which called for “the creation of significant dedicated Indigenous space on the St. George Campus” including “outdoor space appropriate for Indigenous spiritual needs.”
An Indigenous Advisory Committee led the vision for this project in collaboration with Brook McIlroy’s Indigenous Design Studio, who developed the design in consultation with a broad range of Indigenous partners, including U of T community members, Elders, and local First Nations and Joseph Pitawanakwat, Indigenous Plant Specialist from Creator’s Garden.
Key Features
Reclaimed Wood
Throughout the space, reclaimed wood from local Toronto trees has been revitalized and crafted into seating.
The Pavilion
The pavilion is a gathering space where Indigenous culture and knowledge can be shared among Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Ceremonial fire can be held in this space.
Rainwater Feature
The architecture utilizes the natural elements and allows for rainwater to drain from the pavilion roof, to funnel through the rock pathways resembling the creek which, though buried, still flows beneath this space.
Amphitheatre
An outdoor teaching and gathering space for the U of T community, with seating built into the slope of the land.
Native Plants and Signage
All the trees, plants, and shrubs added to the project are Native to this land and their names have been included on signs that are translated into Anishinaabe, Seneca, Latin, and English.
Marker Tree
Trail Marker Trees are a traditional method used by many Indigenous peoples to indicate the direction of important locations, such as water sources, along a trail.
Spaces at Ziibiing are bookable through the Office of Indigenous Initiatives.