‘Why are territorial acknowledgements important?’

Reg Crowshoe, former Chief, Piikuni First Nation, and UCalgary senate member, explains the importance of acknowledging the traditional territories of Indigenous people.
The University of Calgary recognizes First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples of Canada as traditional stewards of the land. As the University is located within the Treaty 7 region, public acknowledgement and recognition of the peoples of Treaty 7 is customary. At convocation, conferences, and other large public gatherings hosted by the University of Calgary, it is recommended that opening remarks include an official acknowledgement of the traditional territories of the Treaty 7 people of Southern Alberta. This practice is consistent with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada and the subsequent ‘Calls to Action’. Protocol indicates that the acknowledgement should be made by whomever is the first speaker at an event, and should be mentioned before acknowledgements of dignitaries.