Mount Pearl signs declaration to advance Indigenous reconciliation

The City of Mount Pearl has signed a declaration to advance truth and reconciliation efforts while working to promote the inherent rights of the city's Indigenous population.

The declaration signed earlier this month highlights a commitment to supportcalls for action and justice outlined in the Truth and Reconciliation of Commission of Canada, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and the 42 calls for change outlined in the First Voice Community Action Plan.

"Mount Pearl is committed to being a place where the inherent rights of the Indigenous peoples of Newfoundland and Labrador, including urban Indigenous peoples, are respectfully recognized and actively supported by all," Mayor Dave Aker said at a city council meeting on Sept. 17.

That involves "advancing truth and reconciliation by working together, decolonizing the city's municipal practices and policies [and]government structures to better reflect Indigenous perspectives and rights."

Heidi Dixon, the director of programs at First Light in St. John's, said she is happy to see the city take actionable steps to advance truth and reconciliation.

"We've been doing a lot of work over the last number of years trying to amplify Indigenous, urban Indigenous voices. I'm really excited to see this happening," Dixon said.

The City of St. John's made a similar declaration in September 2020 tosupport the rights,strengthen relationships and bolster inclusivity betweenthecapital city and itsgrowing Indigenous community.

Justin Campbell, First Light's director of advocacy, said it's important that declarations like the one made in Mount Pearl go beyond platitudes and encourage municipalities to commit to change.

"It's important that these efforts be Indigenous-led, and that the work not fall solely on Indigenous peoples," Campbell said. "We all have a role to play in truth and reconciliation."

Download ourfree CBC News appto sign up for push alerts for CBC Newfoundland and Labrador.Click here to visit our landing page.