On July 15, the City of Fernie acknowledged its commitment to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action and our role as local government in the process of advancing reconciliation efforts.

In passing a resolution that supports the TRC Calls to Action and adopting a Land Acknowledgement Statement to be used at municipal function and events, the City of Fernie is striving to advance the Calls to Action. Through these actions, the city hopes to create opportunities for partnership and collaboration with the Ktunaxa Nation and Indigenous people in the region.

At the August 12 Regular Council Meeting, council endorsed the Committee of the Whole recommendation to support the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action as well as the implementation of a land acknowledgement statement.

Implementing a Land Acknowledgement Statement supports reconciliation and respect by recognizing the traditional territory of the Indigenous peoples who  have called this land home for generations. The following Land Acknowledgment statement, which was drafted in consultation with the Ktunaxa Nation, will be implemented at municipal meetings and events: “I (we) wish to acknowledge that the land on which we gather is within the Ktunaxa  ?amaki?is, the homeland of the Ktunaxa people.” 

Council and staff will have the opportunity to explore other initiatives related to the Calls to Action for Committee consideration through the city’s Strategic Planning, Service Level Review, and Budget processes.

City of Fernie

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