The City of Ottawa is located on the unceded traditional territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe Nation, and is a gathering place for the culturally rich and diverse urban communities of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. The City honours the land and peoples of the Algonquin Anishinabe Host Nation, as well as all First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Ottawa.
As June is Indigenous History Month, and Indigenous Peoples Day is on June 21, it is crucial that we take the opportunity to reflect on our journey together and recommit towards our own pathway to reconciliation. At the City, we are committed to incorporating equity, diversity and inclusion in the way we deliver our services to ensure that all residents and employees feel safe, heard, seen and well served.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, our annual Walking Together: Reconciliation Learning Day event will be celebrated through virtual recognition and learning opportunities. This annual event began in 2010, as an opportunity to raise awareness and celebrate the history, heritage and distinct cultures of Indigenous peoples in Canada. We all have an important role in advancing reconciliation, and we have a tremendous opportunity to listen, understand, learn and heal our relationships with Algonquin Anishinabe Host Nation, First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples in Ottawa.
As a City, we have made it a priority to ensure we work in partnership with the Indigenous community, to develop initiatives and deliver services to Algonquin Anishinabe Host Nation, First Nations, Inuit and Métis residents in Ottawa. In February 2018, Ottawa City Council approved its Reconciliation Action Plan.
Let’s ensure that the Reconciliation Action Plan serves as a catalyst to strengthen relationships, build cultural awareness and competency and ultimately create a city where we stand united in solidarity and recognize that we all have a role in creating a safe place of belonging for Algonquin Anishinabe Host Nation, First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples in Ottawa.
