Reconciliation

CPAWS Ottawa Valley works on the Anishinabe (Algonquin) and Kanienʼkehá:ka (Mohawk) Nations’ territories.

We understand reconciliation is about understanding and healing between Indigenous and non Indigenous Peoples and this includes non profit organizations working closely with indigenous communities to protect the lands and waters they have called home across Canada for millennia.

CPAWS-OV recognizes that upholding the values of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion of Indigenous voices and perspectives is an ongoing process that requires us to be actively listening, accountable, and true partners to Indigenous Peoples.

Supporting Indigenous-led conservation is an essential part of reconciliation and honoring and including indigenous knowledge in land management plans is essential to our success. Indigenous communities are at the forefront of conservation efforts across Canada and the Ottawa Valley, and have stewarded their territories since time immemorial.

Many Indigenous communities are steadily moving Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) and Indigenous Guardian programs forward, and we support Indigenous communities and their leadership to identify, create, and manage protected areas and ecosystems.

We acknowledge our chapter has a responsibility to support and respect Indigenous land sovereignty, or the right of Indigenous peoples to control and govern their land, natural resources, and cultural significance as they see fit. We are also grateful for the insight, knowledge and energy our indigenous partners bring to our joint conservation efforts.

Interested in learning more about indigenous led conservation initiatives and cultural experiences in the Ottawa Valley?

Here is a list of groups and organisations to follow and learn from:

Kitigan Zibi Natural Resource and Wildlife Office: The Natural Resource and Wildlife Office cares for nature and wildlife within the traditional territory of the Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg and are in charge of the Guardians program and Species at Risk projects.

Kidjimaninan: An indigenous led partnership project, Kidjīmāninān brings together municipalities, communities, conservation groups, and researchers to restore and protect the ecosystems of the Outaouais region.

The Wild Basket: Traditionally based, locally harvested and sustainable wild foods. Follow their website and facebook page for more information on sustainable practices and indigenous knowledge.

Algonquin Canoe: Indigenous owned eco-tourism company created by the Wolf Lake First Nation. Go on a guided tour of the river or join in on a traditional craft workshop.

Madahoki Farm in the Ottawa Greenbelt: Home to the annual Summer Solstice Indigenous Festival, Madahoki houses a year round Indigenous marketplace that promotes products made by Indigenous makers and artisans as well as a growing herd of endangered Ojibwe Spirit Horses. You can experience authentic indigenous culture including delicious cuisine.