The Regina Executive Council was presented with a report recommending the designation of city land as an Indigenous ceremonial site. The proposed area is located at Kings Park campground near the Tor Hill golf course, east of Regina. Piapot First Nation elder Harry Francis spoke to the city council about the importance of having a designated ceremonial space for Indigenous people. He explained that ceremonies are essential for Indigenous people to find and maintain their identity. The elders’ advisory group identified the isolated space at Kings Park campground as an ideal location for holding ceremonies, as they had previously lost another ceremonial ground due to flooding. City manager Niki Anderson introduced the report, highlighting the opportunity to demonstrate tangible commitment to reconciliation by hosting sweat ceremonies at the designated site this year.
Anderson emphasized that reconciliation requires political will, joint leadership, trust-building, accountability, transparency, and substantial investment of resources. She stated that supporting Indigenous peoples’ culture, revitalization, and connection to the land are essential components of the reconciliation process. The motion to designate the area for Indigenous ceremonies was passed unanimously by the six members of the executive council who were present at the meeting. The decision reflects the council’s commitment to taking meaningful actions related to reconciliation and supporting the cultural practices of Indigenous communities. This initiative is seen as a positive step towards building stronger relationships with Indigenous peoples and promoting understanding and respect for their traditions.
By designating the Kings Park campground area as an Indigenous ceremonial site, the city of Regina is providing Indigenous people with a space to practice their cultural traditions and hold ceremonies. The site is described as isolated and suitable for hosting ceremonies, making it a valuable resource for Indigenous communities in the city. Elder Harry Francis highlighted the importance of having a designated space for ceremonies, as they play a crucial role in maintaining and expressing Indigenous identity. The decision to designate the area for Indigenous ceremonies reflects the city’s commitment to reconciliation and supporting Indigenous cultural revitalization.
The process of designating the Kings Park campground area as an Indigenous ceremonial site involved input from the Piapot First Nation elder advisory committees and discussions with city council members. The unanimous approval of the motion by the executive council members demonstrates their recognition of the significance of providing Indigenous communities with access to ceremonial spaces. City manager Niki Anderson emphasized the importance of tangible actions in the reconciliation process, stating that supporting Indigenous culture and connections to the land are essential components. Through the designation of the ceremonial site, the city is taking steps towards building stronger relationships with Indigenous communities and demonstrating its commitment to reconciliation efforts.
The decision to designate the Kings Park campground area as an Indigenous ceremonial site was met with unanimous support from the executive council members present at the meeting. The approval of the motion reflects the council’s commitment to reconciliation and supporting Indigenous cultural practices. By providing a designated space for Indigenous ceremonies, the city of Regina is taking concrete steps towards recognizing and respecting the cultural traditions of Indigenous communities. The initiative is seen as a positive contribution to the reconciliation process and a way to promote understanding and cooperation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents. This decision highlights the city’s efforts to actively engage with Indigenous communities and support their cultural revitalization efforts.
