Truth and Reconciliation Across the Region
The Region's Truth and Reconciliation efforts are seen, felt, and experienced throughout the community. Reconciliation is an ongoing and intentional process. In partnership with Indigenous communities, the Region is supporting initiatives that:
- Fulfill the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Calls to Action
- Celebrate Indigenous language, heritage, and culture
- Serve the needs and priorities of Indigenous peoples across the Region
Some of that work is showcased here:
Reconciliation Action Partnership
The Reconciliation Action Partnership is a collaborative group of municipal representatives working to coordinate efforts to support Indigenous-centred initiatives across Waterloo Region. Learn more about the Reconciliation Action Partnership.
Indigenous Languages Greetings Wall
As you arrive at various Regional sites, you will be welcomed with a new sign offering greetings in Indigenous languages spoken within the Region of Waterloo. Hearing and learning Indigenous languages is vital in Canada because these languages carry the history, culture, and worldview of Indigenous peoples, fostering reconciliation and mutual understanding. This wall stands as a powerful symbol of change, marking a shift away from a history where Indigenous languages were silenced and unwelcome in government spaces. Today, it reflects our commitment to creating a space that welcomes First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples by honoring their languages. We invite you to take time to visit the sign, learn greetings in these Indigenous languages, and reflect on your own Truth and Reconciliation journey.
Tionnhéhkwen Garden at Schneider Haus
Learn about the Tionnhéhkwen Garden at Schneider Haus, and the work we are doing in partnership with Land Back Camp, sharing space and resources with Indigenous communities in the Region.
Land Back Camp finds new community food garden space at Schneider Haus | CBC News
KW Urban Native Wigwam Project Transitional Housing
Learn how our partnership with KW Urban Native Wigwam Project is supporting Homes For All in the Region, creating access to transitional housing for Indigenous people experiencing homelessness.
Indigenous-led Early Childhood Education in the Region's Early Years and Childcare System Service Plan (2022-2026)
Learn more about our Early Years and Child Care Service System Plan and how Indigenous-led early childhood education is an important part of that plan and vision.
Region of Waterloo Children’s Services - Early Years and Child Care Service System Plan 2022-2026
Indigenous Site at Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum
Learn about how we are sharing space and resources with Indigenous communities in the Region through the Indigenous site at the Ken Seiling Waterloo Region Museum. This site is a space for education, recognition, and healing.
Indigenous site beside Waterloo Region museum to help educate, heal
Indigenous Space Needs Assessment
The Region completed an assessment to learn more about Indigenous needs when it comes to spaces that are safe and inclusive. Our Indigenous Space Needs Assessment supports the sharing of Regional spaces and resources with Indigenous communities in the Region. Learn more by reading the final report linked below.
