Land Acknowledgement

BGC Ottawa acknowledges that Ottawa is built on un-ceded and un-surrendered Algonquin Anishinaabe territory. The Peoples of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation have lived on this territory for millennia. Their culture and presence have nurtured and continue to nurture this Land. BGC Ottawa honours the Peoples and Land of the Algonquin Anishinaabe Nation. BGC Ottawa honours all First Nations, Inuit, Métis and all Indigenous Peoples and their valuable past and present contributions to this Land known as Turtle Island.

As a child and youth-serving organization, it is critical to decolonize our mindset and practices, learn from Indigenous Elders, Knowledge Keepers, organizations, and consult from their expertise, guidance, and implement the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action that are relevant to our work and personal lives. We recognize that those of us who are not First Nations, Inuit, or Métis have settled on Turtle Island, whether welcomed or not. We must inherit the responsibility to respect and care for the Land that we live, learn, play, and work on. A Land that nourishes and shelters us. We are grateful to the land and water protectors who continue to care for Turtle Island and must join in this relational caring as we are all related. BGC Ottawa strives to journey in this relational accountability.

Developed by Jamila Ahmed