The City of Lethbridge has taken a significant step towards inclusivity and reconciliation by releasing a new, more inclusive land acknowledgment. This move comes as part of the city’s ongoing efforts to recognize and honor the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda Nation.
The new land acknowledgment was developed in collaboration with members of the local Indigenous community and is intended to be more reflective of the diverse Indigenous peoples who have lived on this land for thousands of years. It reads:
“We acknowledge that the land on which we gather is the traditional territory of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda Nation. We honor and respect the longstanding relationships with the Indigenous peoples of this place and recognize that we are all treaty people.”
This updated land acknowledgment replaces the previous version, which only mentioned the Blackfoot Confederacy. The City of Lethbridge hopes that this new acknowledgment will serve as a reminder of the ongoing process of reconciliation and the importance of acknowledging the land’s original inhabitants.
Mayor Chris Spearman expressed his gratitude to the Indigenous community for their collaboration in creating this more inclusive land acknowledgment. He also emphasized the city’s commitment to continue working towards reconciliation and building stronger relationships with the local Indigenous peoples.
The release of this new land acknowledgment comes at a time when many cities and organizations across Canada are reevaluating their own acknowledgments and taking steps towards greater inclusivity. The City of Lethbridge’s efforts are a testament to their dedication to creating a more welcoming and respectful community for all.
In addition to the new land acknowledgment, the City of Lethbridge has also launched a new webpage dedicated to Indigenous relations. This page provides information on the city’s ongoing initiatives and partnerships with the local Indigenous community, as well as resources for learning more about the history and culture of the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda Nation.
The City of Lethbridge’s new, more inclusive land acknowledgment is a significant step towards reconciliation and serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and honoring the traditional territories of Indigenous peoples. It is a testament to the city’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and welcoming community for all.
