I acknowledge that I live and work on the unceded territories of the lək̓ʷəŋən Peoples, represented by the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, and the W̱SÁNEĆ Peoples, represented by the Tsartlip, Tsawout, Tseycum, Pauquachin and Malahat Nations. I acknowledge the deep connection of the First Peoples to their lands and am grateful for their protection of these lands since time immemorial. I am committed to continue my learning about the true history of the Indigenous to settler relationships and the atrocities that have been committed by settlers of my heritage (white European), and deepen my understanding of the effects of continued oppression and systemic racism that Indigenous Peoples still experience. I pledge to continue my learning and actively look for ways to reduce my own inherent racist biases, work to contribute to creating the basis for true healing on a systemic and personal level, and stand with the Indigenous Peoples of these lands.
While in no way intending to delegate my responsibility to find ways to promote healing of Indigenous to non-indigenous relationships, I welcome suggestions of ways how I can contribute in appropriate, useful, and respectful ways. Thank you.