It’s important to understand the history of how we came to live on this land. Taking time to acknowledge ourselves as settlers reminds us that colonialism is an on-going process.

We would caution you to avoid acknowledging your land just because everyone else is doing it. This is an opportunity for you to inspire others to take action as well, in supporting Indigenous communities in Canada.

How to create your land acknowledgement.

Research the:

• Indigenous people your land belongs to

• The history of the land and any related treaties

• Indigenous place names and language

For example: Sage and Sunshine Culture-Based Private School is located in Nogojiwanong or "Place at the foot of the rapids." (now known as Peterborough). We acknowledge that we are located on the traditional Indigenous Territory of the Michi Saagig People covered by Treaty #20 signed November, 1818. We offer our gratitude to the First Peoples for their care for, and teachings about, our earth and our relations.  May we honour those teachings well.

Land acknowledgements are great and all, but here are a few more tangible ways you can extend support to Indigenous communities and people in your area:

• Volunteer or donate to Indigenous Organizations

• Check out the 94 Calls to Action in Canada

• Support locally-owned Indigenous businesses and makers

• Share and support Indigenous businesses and people on social media. Likes, saves, shares and comments go a long way to diversifying the social media spaces.

• Invest in anti-racist training in Canada.

#landacknowledgement #indigenousculture #alllivesmatter #indigenouschildren