RECONCILIATION

Turning commitments into action through meaningful, respectful partnerships with Indigenous nations

  • The City should create more consistent opportunities for local Nations to participate meaningfully in decisions that affect their communities and territories. This could include establishing regular meetings between Council and local Nation leadership, involving Indigenous representatives earlier in relevant planning processes, and seeking Indigenous input on major projects and policies. Building these relationships proactively, rather than only consulting when required, would help the City make better decisions and build trust over time.

  • Meaningful reconciliation requires our city government to understand the history, cultures, and ongoing experiences of Indigenous peoples in our community. Councillors and city staff should receive regular cultural awareness training developed in partnership with local Indigenous communities. This would help build a shared understanding of the impacts of colonialism, improve communication and relationships, and ensure that Indigenous perspectives are better reflected in the decisions and services of the City.

  • The Matullia lands present an extraordinary opportunity for local Nations and the city of Victoria. The Sen̓áḵw project in Vancouver provides an amazing example of how transformative and beneficial Indigenous-led development can be, both for the Nations themselves and for the community as a whole. Victoria should work collaboratively with local Nations to support their aspirations for the site and help create the conditions for ambitious, community-led development. This is an opportunity to advance reconciliation while creating new housing, economic opportunities, and community benefits for Victoria.