The University of Victoria has decided to rename one of its residence buildings out of a respect to First Nations.
In a release, the board of governors made a decision on May 30th to take the name Trutch off the Landsdown Residence complex after a number of students requested it happen both recently and in the past.
In 1969 the residence buildings was named after Sir Joseph Trutch who was BC's First Lieutenant Governor and a few other dignitaries like John S. Helmcken and Robert W. W. Carroll.
On review, Uvic says Trutch’s stand on Indigenous affairs run contrary to its values and as well number students felt they would be uncomfortable living in a residence that his name attached.
“Trutch’s negative approach to the land rights of First Nations people and disregard for their concerns conflict with UVic’s mission, vision and values,” says Carmen Charette, vice-president of external relations in a statement on the University’s website.
The building, which is home to 48 students each year, will be temporarily renamed Lansdowne Residence #1 until a new name is selected.