In a ceremony yesterday (September 18) the Treaty 7 and Métis Nation flags were permanently placed in the Council Chambers and in front of City Hall.

"In our ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation, we are raising the flags to honour Treaty 7 First Nations and Métis Peoples. We have heard from Indigenous community members that this would be an important measure in solidifying relationships and building trust within the entire community, benefiting both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples," says Mayor Peter Brown.

Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and representatives from the Blackfoot Confederacy, including the Siksika and Piikani Nations, Tsuut'ina Nation, Stoney Nation, Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3, members of City Council, and members of the local community, were present for the ceremony of hoisting the flag.

The City of Airdrie also disclosed the formation of a new Heritage and Indigenous Relations team in conjunction with this landmark event.

The efforts of this team will help create a guiding strategy for the City and Council to continue the relationship-building, learning, and implementing change to achieve long-term reconciliation and relooking at land use through an archeological lens.

“We have taken significant steps in building relationships with the Indigenous community,” said Jennifer Lutz, team leader of Heritage and Indigenous Relations. “One of the focus areas of our team would be Nose Creek. It is known to be an important archaeological area, so ensuring the traditional knowledge and land use assessment is captured would be key. Further, co-creating a strategy with Indigenous Peoples is an important next step to support council’s vision in Airdrie’s truth and reconciliation journey.”

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