Indigenous Awareness Resources

SGC Land Acknowledgement

Saskatchewan is located on Treaty 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10 Territory. We acknowledge all the many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit whose footsteps have marked these lands for centuries past, and the imprints we’ll make together going forward. We recognize the harms and injustices of the past and present. We give thanks for the opportunity to ensure the German culture thrives in Saskatchewan alongside the vibrant Indigenous communities.

Who are the Indigenous Peoples of Canada?

In Canada, Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of the land and their descendants. The three groups—First Nations, Inuit, and Métis—are distinct, each with their unique history, languages, cultural practices, spiritual beliefs, hunting territories, and way of life.

Why is it important for non-Indigenous people to learn about Indigenous Peoples?

Indigenous peoples have lived on the land now known as Canada since time immemorial.

It helps to recognize the role of Indigenous Peoples in shaping this country, to understand & reflect upon history, to increase understanding of Indigenous culture, to create better relationships between non-Indigenous and Indigenous individuals, to move forward with reconciliation, and to share rich traditions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.

What are Treaties?

Treaties provide a framework for good relations and sharing the land Indigenous peoples have traditionally occupied. They are the foundation for ongoing co-operation and partnership as we move forward together to advance reconciliation.

Are we all Treaty People?

Both Indigenous and non-Indigenious peoples are part of Treaty as Treaties are mutual arrangements of co-existence between Treaty parties.

Reconciliation

Canada has started a journey of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. It is a crucial journey to address the history of colonialism and the scars it has left and (to) build a renewed relationship with Indigenous Peoples based on the recognition of rights, respect and partnership.

Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC)

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada was established in 2005 to facilitate reconciliation among former students of Indian Residential Schools, their families, their communities, and all Canadians.

The TRC’s mandate was to inform all Canadians about what happened in Indian Residential Schools by documenting the truth of survivors, families, communities, and anyone personally affected by the Residential School experience.

SGC’s Commitment to Reconciliation
As part of our ongoing journey toward reconciliation, our organization is actively engaging with Call to Action #92 “Business and Reconciliation” from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada:

• Building respectful relationships through meaningful consultation and collaboration with Indigenous communities
• Providing education and training for our team on Indigenous history, rights, and intercultural competency

We recognize that reconciliation is not a destination, but a continuous process—and we are committed to learning, listening, and taking action.

Resources & Education about Treaties and Reconciliation