Land acknowledgements have become increasingly common at meetings, conferences and events across Canada. While this is a positive step toward reconciliation, they can sometimes feel scripted or disconnected from their intended meaning. As planners, you have an opportunity and a responsibility to ensure these acknowledgements are thoughtful, informed and rooted in genuine respect. WHY THEY MATTER A land acknowledgement recognizes the original stewards of the land on which you gather, honouring the enduring presence of Indigenous Peoples, their cultures and their contributions. It also invites your audience to reflect on the histories, both positive and painful, that have shaped the place where you meet. When delivered with care, a land acknowledgement is more than a formality. It’s an act of relationship-building, a visible signal that Indigenous histories and voices matter. It is also one step toward the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action, particularly those related to education, public awareness and cultural understanding. AVOID THE “COPY AND PASTE” TRAP One of the most common missteps is relying That last point is critical. Acknowledgements should not stand alone; they should be part of an ongoing effort to engage with and support Indigenous communities. This might include sourcing from Indigenous-owned businesses, offering cultural learning for staff or collaborating with Indigenous artists, speakers and educators. YOUR ROLE AS PLANNERS As event professionals, you influence how thousands of people experience and understand land acknowledgements each year. By taking the time to learn, listen and act, you can transform a moment at the podium into a lasting message of respect and inclusion. When you approach land acknowledgements with authenticity, you honour the past while helping build a more respectful and collaborative future and that is something worth planning for. Marc Forgette is an Anishinaabe entrepreneur from the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation and founder of Makatew Inc. Through workshops, speaking and consulting, he helps organizations foster reconciliation and Indigenous inclusion. Recognized with multiple awards for leadership, Marc is dedicated to preserving and sharing Indigenous knowledge in meaningful and practical ways. makatew.ca on a generic statement found online. While such resources can be a starting point, they’re not a substitute for genuine engagement. True authenticity comes from learning whose land you’re on, understanding local history and connecting the acknowledgement to the purpose of your event. Whenever possible, work with local Indigenous leaders, Elders or knowledge keepers. This ensures accuracy and builds meaningful relationships. If inviting an Elder to deliver the acknowledgement, follow proper protocols, which may include offering tobacco, providing an honorarium and ensuring they are welcomed as a respected guest. MAKING IT MEANINGFUL A strong land acknowledgement should: 1. Name the Nations: Clearly identify the Indigenous Nations or communities connected to the territory. 2. Speak from the Heart: Use language that feels natural to you and relevant to your audience. 3. Invite Reflection: Encourage attendees to consider their own relationship to the land and its history. 4. Link to Action: Share what your organization is doing to support Indigenous inclusion or reconciliation. Creating Authentic and Respectful Land Acknowledgements by Marc Forgette “A land acknowledgement recognizes the original stewards of the land on which you gather, honouring the enduring presence of Indigenous Peoples, their cultures and their contributions.” GREAT MINDS Good to Know Winter 2025 | Ignitemag.ca | 21
