The origin of the Land Acknowledgement can be found in Nation-to-Nation tradition and protocol that has been used as a way “for guests to show their respect for and pay homage to the Indigenous community with which they are visiting and engaging” (source: Canadian Association of University Teachers (CAUT) Guide to Acknowledging First Peoples and Traditional Land). ISSofBC works in different communities throughout the Lower Mainland as well as in other regions of BC. We acknowledge that our work takes place on the traditional and unsurrendered lands of the Coast Salish peoples of Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh, the Katzie, Kwantlen, Kwikwetlem, Lheidli T’enneh, Semiahmoo, numerous Stó:lō Nations, Syilx Okanagan people, Tsawwassen and Qayqayt First Nations. Indigenous peoples have cared for, nurtured and sustained these lands since time immemorial and we are grateful for their  commitment to protect the environment, the land, and the waters that surround us. We express our gratitude for the opportunity to live, work and play on these lands. We are thankful for the places and spaces we occupy and for the generosity of the rightful owners of this territory. We commit to walking gently on the lands and in the space we occupy in the same way you once did, with respect, kindness and care.

 Read our Truth and Reconciliation Strategy