INNISFAIL - The Chinook’s Edge School Division (CESD) has adopted a new land acknowledgement in recognition of the Indigenous peoples who have lived in the area for time immemorial.
The move came by way of motion by trustees at a recent board meeting.
The updated land acknowledgement was formulated through consultation and collaboration with stakeholders, including Indigenous leaders, as well as visits to historical sites in the district.
“A land acknowledgement is a way that we can demonstrate our commitment, as a school division, to reconciliations,” said Karyn Barber, associate superintendent with CESD.
“We truly appreciate the support and participation of students, central office leaders, staff, school board trustees and Indigenous partners in this work.”
The updated acknowledgement reads, in part: “We respectfully acknowledge that the schools within Chinook’s Edge School Division are situated on Treaty 6 and 7 lands, home of the First Nations, Dene, Nehiyawak, Nakoda, Anishinaabe, Niitsitapi, the Metis Nation of Alberta and Inuit Peoples. From the majestic mountain views, vast prairies, and skies of the chinook arch, we express gratitude fro the beauty and abundance these lands provide.”
The acknowledgement is recited during official events at area schools in support of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples, she said.
