History and Tradition The Chancellor, on behalf of the University, bestows degrees upon its students. It is the act, not a certificate, which constitutes the validity of the degree. The students bear for all time the mark of their association with Western. They have received what the University has been and presently is. Bearing the promise of the future, they are what the University hopes to be.
Western Mace The mace has evolved into a symbolic emblem of legislative and civic authority. Western’s mace was presented to the University by the Vice-Chancellor of the University of London in 1948. It is made of silver and is ornamented with symbols derived from the Western coat of arms.
Bronzed Moccasins Children’s remains continue to be recovered at Residential School sites across Turtle Island. Their spirits inform and guide the work of Reconciliation, Decolonization and Indigenization—work that will honour the stolen lives of those who never had the chance to grow and experience a university education.
Indigenous Gonfalon Indigenous identity is diverse and every Indigenous nation across Turtle Island is distinct. The Gonfalon elements represent core beliefs that resonate with many Indigenous epistemologies. The Indigenous Gonfalon honours Indigenous diversity, identity and leadership at Western University.
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