Town of Canmore’s commitment to reconciliation

In October 2017, the Town of Canmore committed to play a role in advancing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action. Almost two years in, Canmore’s experience shows the importance of ongoing efforts to make reconciliation part of a community's life.

Examples of the Town’s initiatives to-date include:

• To advance Child Welfare Action 5, Town staff have supported Stoney Nakoda’s application to the Province for a traditionally-based Parent Link Centre in Morley. The grant was approved and Town staff will support the initiative as requested.
• To advance Education Action 12, Canmore incorporated Indigenous books, posters, images, and stories into Bow Valley Parent Link and Family and Community Support Services' programs and spaces.
• To advance Language and Culture Action 14, the Town of Canmore worked with the Municipal District of Bighorn on their Canada 150 initiative to install historical signs throughout the Bow Valley. Eight plaques highlighting the Indigenous history of the Bow Valley were unveiled at various locations throughout the valley.
• To advance Professional Development and Training for Public Servants Action 57, Canmore provided the KAIROS Blanket Exercise training for summer camp staff and successfully applied for an AUMA grant to bring the blanket exercise to local Town Council and staff.
• To advance Commemoration Action 79, the Town has been engaging with artists and community to include Indigenous programming in public art and community events at artsPlace and in the Town’s Arts and Events program offerings.
• To advance Sports and Recreation Action 88, Town staff participated in Spirit North local events and hosted a fundraiser for the organization. Spirit North is a program run by Canmore local Beckie Scott, whose mission is to engage and empower Indigenous children through sport, activity and inspiration.

To learn more about how to build and strengthen municipal relationships with Indigenous communities, visit AUMA’s Welcoming and Inclusive Communities website or wic [at] auma.ca (contact us).