Living, playing, and working in Amiskwaciwâskahikan (ᐊᒥᐢᑲᐧᒋᐋᐧᐢᑲᐦᐃᑲᐣ), colonially known as Edmonton, on Treaty 6 Territory and within Métis Nation Region 4, is a privilege for which I am deeply grateful. These lands have been, and continue to be, the home and traditional gathering place of many Indigenous peoples, including the Cree, Dene, Blackfoot, Saulteaux, Nakota Sioux, Inuit, and Métis.

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I acknowledge that my personal narrative and knowledge has been shaped by the colonial systems and structural violences of Alberta’s past and present.  Acknowledging the privileges intertwined with my upbringing brings discomfort but also a deep sense of responsibility. I aim to reflect more deeply on my positionality and to honour the histories and ongoing contributions of Indigenous peoples in the spaces I occupy.

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I find peace and renewal within our vast mountains and plains. Yet, I am also aware that this connection to the land requires a reciprocal relationship. I am grateful for the Indigenous peoples who have been stewards of these lands for generations and who continue to care for them today.

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As part of my personal journey towards reconciliation, I commit to learning from Indigenous communities; respecting their ways of knowing, being, and doing; fostering relationships built on understanding and reciprocity; and disrupting deficit narratives when they are encountered. I will continue to be open to learning and to take action to protect this land for my children, for yours, and for future generations.