Land Acknowledgment

A land acknowledgement recognizes the essential and enduring connection between the First Nation and our traditional, ancestral lands. In the spirit of reconciliation, our ancestral lands were subjected to Federal and provincial decisions and with consideration of treaty 9, land acknowledgements are one way to recognize and show respect for our ancient and continued connection to these traditional lands.

There are many ways to express or write a land acknowledgement. What is most important is that you sincerely express why acknowledgement matters when speaking or writing the words. We have provided two options that you are welcome to use as templates. We raise our hands in thanks for your respect and support.

Option 1 (for organizations, such as schools, businesses, non-profits, and governments agencies who operate on our territory).

“We acknowledge that [insert the name of your organization] operates on the traditional and ancestral territory of the Cree, Ojibway, and Oji-Cree people. We thank Constance Lake First Nation who continue to live on these lands and care for them, along with the waters and all that is above and below.”

Option 2 (for gatherings, such as conferences, events, and ceremonies held on our territory).

“We acknowledge that [insert name of gathering, event or ceremony] is taking place on the traditional and ancestral territory of the Cree, Ojibway, and Oji-Cree people. We thank the Constance Lake First Nation who continue to live on these lands and care for them, along with the waters and all that is above and below.”

Definitions

Traditional: lands traditionally used and/or occupied by the Constance Lake First Nation people and that are deeply connected to our unique Indigenous identity and culture.

Ancestral: land that is handed down from generation to generation, that carries the spirits of our ancestors, and to which we have an obligation to steward and care.