City of Prince Albert Councillors were recently briefed on the work being done to advance the Truth and Reconciliation Calls (TRC) to action in the city.
City Council’s executive committee was recently provided a report prepared by civic administration which outlined the work which has been done to implement recommendations which are relevant to municipalities.
City administration prepared the report after getting direction from City Council to provide an update on the progress being made to implement TRC calls to action. Ward three Councillor Tony Head lead the calls for an examination of the work which has been done. Head as well offered suggestions on specific calls to action he would like to see implemented.
The report outlines 20 steps the city has taken to move forward on reconciliation. The steps include flying the Treaty Six flag in front of City Hall, providing awareness training to permanent employees and observing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The city’s creation of a Knowledge Keepers Committee was also highlighted.
When it comes to further advancing reconciliation in the city the report highlights relevant TRC calls to action which concern local and municipal governments. These calls include working to reduce the number of Indigenous people who are in custody and working to adopt the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDREP) among a number of others.
When it comes to recommendations to furthering the city’s reconciliation efforts the report recommends looking at how reconciliation goals could be accomplished through the city’s new strategic plan. It as well recommends municipal leadership look at ways to engage with the Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC) and Métis Nation Western Region Two on working towards reconciliation.
As part of the report civic administration reached out and did consultations with the City of Saskatoon and looked at the steps being taken in that city to advance the reconciliation process.
The report can be viewed in full here. PA city council.
(Prince Albert City Hall: Photo Courtesy of Michael Joel-Hansen)