Honouring Canada's Indigenous Peoples
As a third-generation settler in Canada, I am committed to continually learning and supporting Indigenous peoples throughout the country. The On Canada Project has been instrumental in guiding these efforts, offering actionable steps for acknowledging and taking responsibility in the reconciliation process. Here is my list of commitments:
My Commitments to Indigenous Allyship
- Continuous Learning: I commit to deepening my understanding of the peoples and the history of the land I live on. This included completing the Indigenous Canada course offered by the University of Alberta.
- Acknowledging Presence: I will incorporate a personalized land acknowledgment into my daily communications to highlight and respect the privilege of living on Indigenous land.
- Cultural Celebration: I am dedicated to celebrating and honoring Indigenous culture through my artistic expressions, specifically by creating poetry inspired by Indigenous art, imagery, and literature.
- Engagement with Reconciliation: I have read and will actively reflect on the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Report and its 94 Calls to Action, assessing our collective progress and understanding the importance of each action.
- Active Allyship in Practice: I pledge to lead and support initiatives at work and in my community that promote cultural humility and safety. Additionally, I will reach out to my Elected Officials to discuss and promote increased support for Indigenous communities.
- Public Advocacy: I will use my social media platforms to publicly stand in solidarity with Indigenous causes and share resources that foster broader awareness and learning, such as On Canada’s guide to allyship.
Treaty 6 Land Acknowledgment
I acknowledge the privilege to live and work on Treaty 6 Territory, a traditional gathering place for diverse Indigenous peoples, including the Nehiyawak (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Nakoda, Dene, and Anishinabe.
As I walk through our river valley, I reflect on those who have walked these lands before me—grandmothers, grandfathers, mothers, fathers, siblings, and children. My respect and care for this land and our community are small contributions toward our collective healing.
This acknowledgment is supported by a video featuring the voices of Indigenous youth, deepening our understanding of this land’s significance.