Protocols: Welcoming
Protocols involve a welcome to the territory and acknowledgment to the nations whose territory you are on. This welcome process sets the stage for openness and authenticity and creates an ideal environment for innovation to emerge. This means putting the ego and positional power aside and being present in each moment. The key to abiding by Indigenous protocols is to be respectful, humble, and open.
Where you are and why that matters
Treaty Areas and First Nations in Alberta |
Métis Nation of Alberta Regions |
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It is customary to acknowledge the Treaty and Region Land as an acknowledgment of the existence of Indigenous territories and the agreements between our nations.
This is important not only as a political respect but as an acknowledgment of the spiritual, physical, and social connection to the land that most Indigenous people consider sacred.
How to follow First Nation protocol on First Nations treaty lands
Sample land acknowlegement: I would like to thank the Treaty (e.g. Treaty 8) for agreeing to meet with us today and for welcoming us to your treaty lands specifically the (e.g. Cree and Dene). This is also home to Métis Region (e.g. Region 1).
Adapted from: Cultural Protocol Guidelines: Recommended Practices for First Nations, Métis and Inuit. University of Calgary. 2016. Retrieved from https://www.ucalgary.ca/nativecentre/files/nativecentre/cultural-protocol-guideline-november-2016.pdf January 31, 2019.