The Pearson Centre is located in Ottawa, Ontario and we acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional, unceded territory of the Anishinaabe Algonquin people, whose connection to this land reaches back through millennia. Land acknowledgements honour the histories, cultures, and continued presence of Indigenous communities, reminding us that we are guests on this land and that it has always held deep significance for its original stewards. Recognizing this truth allows us to reflect on the impacts of colonization, including the displacement of Indigenous Peoples, the suppression of their cultures, and the loss of self-governance.

Acknowledging land is encouraged in virtual and physical spaces, and most common at the beginning of a gathering of people. It is a practice not only about honouring Indigenous history but also about sharing knowledge, fostering accountability and a commitment to reconciliation. It encourages each of us to actively address historical injustices and to respect Indigenous sovereignty as we seek pathways forward together and reminds us to practice gratitude for the lands we work and live on today.

For those who wish to further educate themselves and identify the traditional territories on which they live or work, resources like https://native-land.ca/ and https://www.whose.land/en/ are valuable tools for learning and reflection. We invite everyone to deepen their understanding, honour Indigenous Peoples’ rights, and support respectful, informed relationships.