Tsuut’ina Nation artists Seth Cardinal Dodginghorse and Glenna Cardinal have removed seven of their pieces from the University of Calgary’s Nickle Galleries.
The works, which explore family lineage and First Nations culture, had been on display for three weeks.
The artists took the step to show solidarity and refuse to normalize the university’s handling of a recent campus debate.
That debate, led by former University of Calgary professor Tom Flanagan, questioned whether Canada’s residential school system should be considered genocide. It took place the day before the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation.
On October 6, about 100 people gathered on campus for a peaceful protest in response; some students also called for Flanagan’s emeritus title to be revoked.
Glenna Cardinal described feeling frustration, anger, and fear. She said the university failed to recognize the harm of reopening such wounds, especially for residential school survivors in their families. Cardinal Dodginghorse stressed that words carry real impact and that this responsibility should come before free-speech arguments.
The university issued a statement affirming its duty to protect free expression and intellectual diversity while fostering an inclusive environment.
It noted that it must allow lawful speech even when ideas are unwelcome or upsetting.
Cardinal Dodginghorse disagreed with that framing. He added that gallery staff have been responsive, but the university itself has not yet contacted the artists.
Letter from Seth cardinal dodginghorse and Glenna Cardinal to the U of Calgary
I support free speech, lbut when it comes to speech that is nothing more than racist hate, NO. Here is is Tom Flanagan again, doing what he does.
I am appalled at the University of Calgary giving Flanagan an opportunity to spew his brand of hatred.
The University of Calgary should apologize immediately.