Batchewana First Nation's Karen Bird says Canadians need to educate themselves before making land acknowledgements in business
When Karen Bird hears from corporate leaders looking to integrate land acknowledgements into their business dealings, the number one thing they say is holding them back is fear.But that fear is misplaced, said Bird.
Land acknowledgements must be more than a speaker rattling off a few throwaway lines before starting a meeting or conference, Bird said. A lesser known document, the Document of Discovery, developed around the 15th century, outlined a set of guidelines that 'permitted' European explorers to acquire land and sovereignty over it, as long as any people living there were considered 'uncivilized' by European standards.
“When you understand those things, and how prosperity in any of those areas is so tightly woven with the land, you’ll understand the significance of a land acknowledgement.” Indigenous peoples are doctors and business owners and lawyers, and more, who are learning to practise their culture while living in modern society, she added.
She compares it to being invited to someone’s house for dinner: after they welcome you into their home, it’s common to express gratitude for their hospitality.
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