At its first meeting of the year, the Comox Valley Regional District Board of Directors adopted a statement of reconciliation that will continue to guide its work with Indigenous Peoples.
The statement formally recognizes the CVRD’s commitment to Reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, as outlined in The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and several other key documents.
However, the CVRD also clearly acknowledges that it will be the actions undertaken to support this statement that will truly define its relationship with Indigenous Peoples moving forward.
“Reconciliation is not just a statement or a gesture. It is a commitment to take responsibility for the past and move forward in partnership with Indigenous Peoples to support the reclamation of their identity, culture and livelihood,” explained CVRD Vice-Chair, Arzeena Hamir.
“While the words we have adopted are important, as a board we understand that history will judge us by our actions. We are at the beginning of a very long journey to heal the past. We must be humble and committed leaders that will help to pave the way towards a better future for our community.”
K’ómoks First Nation Chief Nicole Rempel said she is happy to be moving forward and continuing to work with and support the CVRD.
“Reconciliation takes commitment on both sides, and action on both sides. We at K’ómoks are proud of the relationship built with the CVRD and their daily commitment to working with KFN to take actions that reflect the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People.”
“By taking this one important step, the CVRD join the City of Courtenay in leading the way within municipalities nation-wide on adopting the UNDRIP and committing to working with the territorial Rights and Titleholders on acknowledging Indigenous Rights within our unceded territory. We look forward to continuing to work with and support the CVRD in their efforts toward Reconciliation,” said Rempel.
You can read more about the actions that are planned or have already been undertaken by visiting the Comox Valley Regional District’s website.
