Working towards Reconciliation
I am pleased to share that a new protocol to frame the City’s relationship on cultural matters with the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation, one of the eight approved Reconciliation Action Plan culture actions, was approved at the Community and Protective Services Committee meeting this week. The protocol would help guide partnerships and shared action in the areas of Indigenous arts, heritage, and culture.
The word protocol can include many things, but overall it refers to ways of interacting with Indigenous people in a manner that respects traditional ways of being. The introduction of cultural protocols represents an important step towards understanding, respecting, and representing Indigenous views, encouraging culturally appropriate working practices, and valuing the cultural diversity that enriches not only our community but our country as a whole.
The development of a City of Ottawa – Anishinabe Algonquin Nation Civic Cultural Protocol is based on a working relationship that began in 2010 during the Culture Plan renewal process. Working relationships between the City of Ottawa Cultural Development and Initiatives Unit and the Anishinabe Algonquin Host Nation have strengthened through the partnered development and implementation of many cultural and heritage initiatives.
As Canadians it is important that we understand Indigenous culture in Canada. To learn about Indigenous history demonstrates the recognition of the significant role of Indigenous Peoples in shaping this country historically and their contributions to protecting democracy.
There is still much work ahead. Reconciliation is the mutual responsibility of all governments. It is a journey where we must acknowledge and celebrate each other’s differences so that we may continue to remove barriers towards equity, diversity and inclusion in the development and delivery of cultural services for all in the City of Ottawa.
