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Oak Bay takes principled approach to reconciliation

Proposed task force would build paths in a manner respectful to First Nations’ resource capacity
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Oak Bay agreed in principle to adopt a call to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s summary report that asks all levels of government to fully adopt and implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as the framework for reconciliation. (Christine van Reeuwyk/Oak Bay News)

Oak Bay plans to take a closer look at establishing a task force for truth and reconciliation in the community.

Coun. Esther Paterson presented the concept earlier this year, and after a few late meetings and quick conversations, council voted Feb. 14 to have staff craft terms of reference for such a committee.

Paterson’s motion asked council to adopt call to action No. 43 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada summary report. The section calls on all levels of government to fully adopt and implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples as the framework for reconciliation. The motion also asked to have that used as a framework for implementing reconciliation in Oak Bay, and that staff publish on the district’s website the adoption of, and references related to the declaration act and actions towards implementation.

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Mayor Kevin Murdoch noted work is underway at the provincial level to create a framework on how municipalities should adopt the call to action into their operations. With that in mind, council agreed to support adopting it in principle, for now.

Council also unanimously agreed to the second portion of the motion, to have staff to bring forward terms of reference to establish a task force.

“I see the purpose of this task force … working with committees to identify, unify and recommend an ongoing mechanism to bring the community and communities longer term together on actions toward reconciliation,” Paterson said, adding it is a first step.

READ ALSO: Oak Bay groups unite to add action to reconciliation in the community

The motion specifically notes the goal is to build paths to reconciliation with Songhees and Esquimalt Nations in a manner respectful to First Nations’ resource capacity. Council members appreciated the last sentiment, with Coun. Eric Zhelka noting it could dictate how quickly the district moves on some pieces.

READ ALSO: Oak Bay lends voice to Te’Mexw treaty process

c.vanreeuwyk@blackpress.ca



Christine van Reeuwyk

About the Author: Christine van Reeuwyk

I'm dedicated to serving the community of Oak Bay as a senior journalist with the Greater Victoria news team.
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