THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND – A PLEDGE

About eleven years ago, a group of committed individuals gathered together to form West Hill’s First Nation Study Group. Spurred by the situation in Grassy Narrows they were intent on raising awareness and encourage engagement with our indigenous brothers and sisters. Over the years they have been active in creating learning opportunities, lobbying for indigenous justice and providing support to indigenous communities. In Sept. 2105 they began sharing every Sunday one of the 94 Calls to Action of the truth and Reconciliation Commission. As well, we began opening our Sunday service with a Land Acknowledgement. In June 2020 we updated that acknowledgement to encourage a greater sense of engagement and commitment to learning more about our First Nations. This past December we shared a sample “Personal Pledge of Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples” (based on a model pledge by Bob Joseph in his book  ”21 Things You May Not Know About The Indian Act”). The following/attached/link is a copy of the sample pledge. We would encourage you to copy, personalize, sign and place it somewhere visible as a constant reminder of your commitment to our Indigenous peoples. Meegwetch (Thank You)


Personal Pledge of Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples

 

I, _______________________, in the spirit of reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples of Canada, solemnly pledge:

 To learn more about the issues affecting First Nations, Inuit and Metis Peoples,

  • To continue to look forward, as an ally, to positive change for the situation of Indigenous Peoples,

  • To find ways to address the Indigenous-related myths and misconceptions with my fellow Canadians.                        

  • To dispel stereotypes in my conversations and observations with others

  • To familiarize myself with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission 94 Calls to Action and to encourage others around me to keep reconciliation as an ongoing effort,

  • To actively engage in the various educational and celebratory activities in my community during each June’s National Indigenous Month and to encourage ongoing support of National Indigenous Peoples Day every June 21st for myself, my family, my community and my colleagues.

 Signature: ____________________________________

  Date: ________________________________________



West Hill United