A Saskatchewan aboriginal advocacy group says municipal governments can play a major role in truth and reconciliation initiatives.
The Aboriginal Affairs Coalition of Saskatchewan says a draft Accord has been sent to the City of Saskatoon to begin the conversation on reconciliation initiatives within the city.
“By embracing this Accord and fulfilling its principles, the City of Saskatoon will be able to achieve a significant step in strengthening relationships with urban Indigenous people,” says coalition President Kim Beaudin.
Beaudin says this partnership can build the network between urban Indigenous peoples and the municipal government. He says municipalities can play a role in reconciliation, but they have not taken that step yet.
“The Truth and Reconciliation Report is saying that as well,” says Beaudin. “They recognize our urban areas are getting bigger and the leadership within the cities can take steps to ensure our Indigenous people are being heard.”
Beaudin says the Accord was sent a week ago and he has not yet heard back from any city officials, but he is confident the conversation has already begun. He says they hope to develop similar partnerships with every city in Saskatchewan.
The Aboriginal Affairs Coalition is an advocacy organization representing the interests of First Nation people living off-reserve.