Convocation ceremonies originate from medieval European university traditions. Academic dress within the context of academic life acknowledges the achievements of the people wearing them. The academic dress found in most universities in the Commonwealth of Nations and the United States is derived from that of the universities of Oxford and Cambridge and York University is no exception.
The academic dress for any degree conferred by York University is such that it demonstrates the provenance of the degree from YorkU indicated by the red and white hood, the Faculty in which the degree has been conferred indicated by the silk border, and the title of the degree (Bachelor, Master or Doctor) indicated by the size and style of the hood. The University normally requires all graduands to wear an academic gown and hood when crossing the stage at graduation.
York University acknowledges our obligation to address the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and to elevate the history and presence of Indigenous peoples in Canada throughout our teaching, research and community activities. We acknowledge that the history of academic robing is rooted in colonial traditions, and we welcome First Nations, Metis and Inuit students, faculty and guests to wear traditional ceremonial dress appropriate to their people and culture.
The academic hood is the recognition of the graduating student’s academic success and a critical part of the academic tradition. The hood, the colour and style of which corresponds to the academic degree earned, is to be worn or carried. It signifies admission into a community of scholars, and graduands are encouraged to include it with one’s traditional Indigenous regalia or academic regalia.
Traditional regalia refers to the traditional and often sacred clothing, accessories, and artifacts worn or carried during various ceremonies, such as powwows, celebrations, and gatherings. The design, type, and meaning of regalia varies greatly depending on the individual who wears it, the culture from which it originates and the event where it is worn.
The York University Mace
Beautifully ornate and deeply symbolic of the Canadian landscape and population, York University’s mace represents many things – a link to the past and a link between York and the City of Toronto. Commissioned by the city’s leaders in 1962 as a gift to the newly independent University, the mace was meant to symbolize the city’s interest in and contribution to York. The metre-long object was designed and fabricated by noted Canadian artist Gerald Trottier, who passed away in July, 2004.
In ancient times, the mace was used to ward off physical attacks during city and town processions. By the 16th century its use had evolved into a ceremonial role and maces were decorated with jewels and precious metals.
Maces are frequently used in academic processions as well as in legislative settings at the federal and provincial level. Each part of York’s mace offers symbolic significance for the University. The end section is set in stones of cullet, bloodstone, agate and amazonite, which represent the diversity of Canada. The shoulder has 10 projections representing Canada’s provinces. The four arms at the head of the mace represent the paths that lead to the ideals that humans strive to achieve. The arms support an orb whose shape reflects the universe and its truths. The orb is executed in the colours of earth – brown, ochre, blue and green.