Sanctuary gratefully acknowledges that our organization operates on the unceded and traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓ əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx ̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples. We also recognize that this acknowledgment is a small part of the bigger ongoing work to foster true reconciliation. As an organization which promotes mental health and wellbeing, we are aware that historic and ongoing overt and systemic racism have impacted the mental health of Indigenous peoples, and we condemn and denounce racism, oppression, and genocidal policies in every form. We also celebrate and acknowledge the dignity, worth, and value of all people made in the image of God. We are immensely grateful for the Indigenous people who have chosen to work with us. It’s an honour to share their stories, expertise, art, and poetry.

Land acknowledgments are a longstanding Indigenous practice recognizing and honouring the relationship of people to space and place. In Canada, where Sanctuary is headquartered, these statements are increasingly offered in public life to recognize the traditional territory of the Indigenous peoples who called the land home before the arrival of settlers/colonization. Through acknowledging whose land we are on, we remind ourselves of the relationships that need repair and our ongoing commitment to reconciliation. For more information and links to additional resources, visit our Indigenous History Month blog post.