CAAT Pension Plan’s Post

Today, we encourage you to read this piece by Jenna Woods, Wardandi Noongar woman and Associate Dean of Teaching and Learning at the School of Indigenous Knowledges. "I find myself questioning what is actually being celebrated? What is it to be Australian? Is it only our colonial past that is to be honoured? Who is included in that and who is not? For me, these questions take us beyond questioning the date to questioning the very core of our national identity." https://loom.ly/cTX7gtI

Land acknowledgements are formal statements that recognize and respect Indigenous Peoples as traditional stewards of the land and the enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories. Here's why they are important and who they are for: 1. Recognition of Indigenous Peoples' Rights and History: They acknowledge the historical and ongoing presence and rights of Indigenous peoples in a specific region. This recognition is significant in countries like Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, where colonialism significantly impacted Indigenous cultures and populations. 2. Educational Purpose: Land acknowledgements serve an educational role, informing people about the history of the land they are on and the Indigenous peoples associated with it. This can increase awareness and understanding of Indigenous histories and cultures, which are often marginalized in mainstream education. 3. Promoting Respectful Relationships: They are a step towards reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. By acknowledging past injustices and the need for ongoing respect and collaboration, they can help build more respectful and reciprocal relationships. 4. Reflecting Cultural Values: For Indigenous communities, land acknowledgements reflect their cultural values of respecting and honoring their ancestral lands and traditions. 5. For Everyone: Land acknowledgements are for everyone present in the particular location, regardless of their heritage. They are meant to be inclusive, promoting a collective understanding of the place's history and the significance of the land to Indigenous communities. 6. Encouraging Responsibility and Action: Beyond recognition, they can inspire individuals and organizations to learn more about local Indigenous cultures and histories, and to engage in more meaningful and informed actions towards reconciliation. In summary, land acknowledgements are a tool for recognition, education, and the fostering of respectful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. They serve as a reminder of the deep connection Indigenous peoples have with the land and encourage ongoing learning and action towards reconciliation. Here is an example of a land acknowledgement for Treaty 7 territory. In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina, the Iyarhe Nakoda Nations, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government of the Métis Nation within Alberta District 6, and all people who make their homes in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta. #Treaty7 #FirstNations #KnowledgeHolders

"Some might ask, “why not just anti-racism training to include Black, Indigenous and People of Colour?” This is because Canada has a unique relationship with Indigenous peoples starting with Peace and Friendship Treaties, to the Royal Proclamation of 1763, to various historical treaties, the Constitution Act, 1982 and numerous Supreme Court of Canada decisions. The British Crown signed treaties with First Nations. The Crown, as the Government of Canada, continues to sign comprehensive land claim and self-government agreements with First Nations, Inuit and Métis governments and nations. It does not do any of this with Black or People of Colour communities. This country we now call Canada encompasses the traditional territories and homelands of First Nations, Inuit and Métis. It has been home “since time immemorial.” Indigenous peoples are not immigrants and have no history, no ties, no memory of another place, nor are there stories about how their people came to Canada. All Canadians need to reflect on this unique relationship and its implications. It can help to disguise the specific responsibilities that the Government of Canada has with First Nations, Inuit and Métis by lumping Black, Indigenous and People of Colour into one broad category and simply addressing it as an issue of “anti-racism.” We must clearly and distinctly take the opportunity to understand the challenges, barriers and history that are unique to Canada."

🧡 Honoring Truth and Reconciliation Day 🧡 Today, we pause to reflect on the importance of Truth and Reconciliation Day in recognizing the lasting impact of colonization and the painful history experienced by Indigenous communities in Canada. This day is not just about remembering the past, but about committing to a future built on respect, education, and meaningful action. At Intuity Performance, we stand in solidarity with Indigenous peoples, honoring their resilience and cultural contributions. We are committed to learning, listening, and supporting the journey towards reconciliation, both within our organization and the broader community. Let’s take today to amplify Indigenous voices, acknowledge the past, and continue the conversation toward lasting change. 🌱 Let’s continue to learn, unlearn, and rebuild together. 🌱 #TruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #IndigenousVoices #ReconciliationInAction #LearningTogether

Generational change starts small, and it starts with us! Policy change is vital, but it's often the mundane, innocuous actions, mindsets and conversations in our own communities that move the needle over generations - one way or another. Educators do this vital work for my and your kids every single day, and speaking to them as part of my role, I know that openly supporting these steps, however small, matters! Support where you can, with encouragement, questions and suggestions. The more we openly acknowledge that we care about justice at a personal level, the more likely things will shift.

Honoring Indigenous Rights: The Importance of UNDRIP Today, I'd like to highlight the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), a landmark document that reaffirms the rights of Indigenous peoples worldwide. As we work towards reconciliation and justice, UNDRIP provides a crucial framework for upholding Indigenous self-determination, cultural preservation, and equitable participation in all aspects of society. In 2007 Canada voted against UNDRIP and it wasn't until 2016 that Canada officially removed its objector status and expressed its support for UNDRIP. However, it wasn't until 2021 that Canada passed the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act, aiming to ensure that Canadian laws align with UNDRIP. UNDRIP is more than just words on paper – it's a call to action for governments, organizations, and individuals to: Respect: Recognize and value the distinct cultures, languages, and knowledge systems of Indigenous peoples. Protect: Safeguard Indigenous lands, territories, and resources from exploitation and environmental degradation. Consult and Cooperate: Engage in meaningful dialogue with Indigenous communities on decisions that affect their lives and futures. Redress: Acknowledge historical injustices and work towards healing and reconciliation. Let's all do our part to support Indigenous-led initiatives and amplify Indigenous voices. By embracing UNDRIP, we can create a more inclusive and equitable future for all. #UNDRIP #IndigenousRights #Reconciliation #IndigenousPeoples #Justice #Equality #Diversity #HumanRights

Today, on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I carved out some time to reflect on the importance of learning—really learning—about the history, experiences, and resilience of Indigenous communities in Canada. This day is about more than just acknowledgment—it’s about taking the time to understand the impact of colonial histories and the responsibilities we carry forward. Reconciliation is not a one-day event, nor is it a uniquely Canadian experience. Many countries across the world are grappling with the legacies of colonialism, injustice, and the harm inflicted on Indigenous peoples. This process—of truth, of healing, of learning—requires all of us to listen and take meaningful action. As the CEO of eeva | Home Life Management, I believe that learning is key to meaningful reconciliation. It’s about listening to voices that have too often been silenced and making space for those stories to guide us forward. I’m committed, both personally and professionally, to continue that journey of understanding, and to help create a future where respect and inclusion are the foundation of everything we do. #TruthAndReconciliation #EveryChildMatters #IndigenousRights #LearningForChange #GlobalReconciliation

Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) plays a crucial role in expanding South Africa’s economic base, driving growth, and fostering job creation. Embrace B-BBEE to contribute to a more inclusive and prosperous economy. #BBEE #EconomicGrowth #JobCreation 

Happy 2nd Anniversary to NIES! 🎉 NIES (National Indigenous Economic Strategy) is designed to drive positive change, address long-standing inequities, and achieve inclusive growth for and with Indigenous communities. This Strategy presents pathways for Canada to be a global leader in upholding Indigenous rights. Its implementation requires the purposeful engagement of governments, corporate Canada, institutions, and all Canadians. Learn more about the National Indigenous Economic Strategy: https://niestrategy.ca/ #IndigenousProsperity #NACCA

Today is National Indigenous Peoples Day, a time for everyone to reflect on, learn about, and appreciate the unique heritages, cultures, knowledge, and contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples in British Columbia and across Canada. This day holds significant importance as it provides an opportunity for all of us to recognize the rich history and traditions of Indigenous communities and the profound impact they have had on our society. I admit I still have so much to learn. As occupiers of these lands, it is our responsibility to educate ourselves about the history of colonization and the ongoing systemic harm in our society. By understanding these issues, we can work towards reconciliation and create a more inclusive and equitable society. Let us commit to learning, understanding, and supporting the rights and cultures of Indigenous communities across Canada. #Reconciliation #CulturalAwareness #Inclusion