Municipal Matters: Walking the path of truth and reconciliation in Medicine Hat

By Shona Dickie on September 26, 2024.

The National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, introduced in 2021, was established in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action.

Its purpose is to honour the survivors of residential schools, along with their families and communities, and to ensure the tragic history of these institutions is never forgotten. For the City of Medicine Hat, this day is more than a commemoration – it’s a call to action.

Medicine Hat formally recognizes the day as a general holiday, encouraging all employees and residents to participate in activities that foster reflection and learning.

Truth and reconciliation however, is not confined to a single day of recognition. For Medicine Hat, it is an ongoing journey that the city has committed to through its Walking the Path to Truth and Reconciliation Plan 2022-2025. Launched in collaboration with the Truth and Reconciliation Recommendations Ad Hoc Committee, this plan outlines actionable steps for promoting education, raising awareness, and building lasting relationships with Indigenous communities.

Steps taken so far

The city continues to make progress in honouring its commitments.

Efforts are underway to document and celebrate the rich Indigenous history of Medicine Hat. Through the city’s Arts & Heritage programming, Indigenous cultures are regularly showcased in exhibits and events that recognize the resilience and strength of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. For example, Mike Mountain Horse’s Story Robe, which was featured in a BBC documentary, was blessed by local Indigenous leaders prior to filming.

The Celebrating Indigeneity Block Party featured Indigenous craftspeople, drumming, a ribbon skirt fashion show, and opportunities to engage with Elder Charlie Fox to learn about proper protocol when interacting with Elders. These initiatives ensure that Indigenous heritage is not only preserved but celebrated as an integral part of Medicine Hat’s contemporary community fabric.

Another notable project is the Medicine Hat Ancestors Reburial Project. In partnership with the Miywasin Friendship Centre and the University of Alberta, the city is working to repatriate the remains and burial artifacts of three ancestors from Medicine Hat, held at the university. This collaborative effort is deeply rooted in respect for Indigenous customs and traditions. The reburial of these ancestors in their original resting place in Medicine Hat is guided by the wishes of the Indigenous communities involved, ensuring that every step is taken with reverence and consultation.

City council members and senior staff have also participated in the KAIROS Blanket Exercise, a powerful tool for building understanding between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. This exercise, along with these other initiatives, underscores the city’s dedication to learning and understanding Indigenous history, rights, and the enduring impacts of colonialism.

Where we are headed

While the City of Medicine Hat has made strides on this journey, there is much more to be done. Reconciliation is a process without a clear endpoint – it requires ongoing dedication and an openness to learning and adapting. Recognizing this, the city has committed to several key initiatives outlined in the Walking the Path to Truth and Reconciliation Plan.

These initiatives include mandatory training for city council and staff on the rights and histories of Indigenous peoples, as well as skill-based training in anti-racism and intercultural competency. A review is also underway to update the city’s Statement of Acknowledgement and Respect in consultation with Indigenous community members, ensuring that it remains a living document that reflects ongoing conversations and relationships.

A significant development in the city’s commitment to Rreconciliation is the creation of a community inclusion co-ordinator position. This role is dedicated to driving forward the initiatives in the Truth and Reconciliation Plan, providing leadership on Indigenous matters, and fostering relationships with Indigenous communities.

The co-ordinator also supports educational efforts, coordinates events, and ensures that Reconciliation remains at the forefront of the city’s priorities.

Gratitude and partnership

The City of Medicine Hat acknowledges that none of this would be possible without the guidance and partnership of local Indigenous leaders, Knowledge Keepers, and Elders. Their wisdom and insight have been invaluable in shaping the city’s approach to reconciliation. The journey we are on is one that must be walked together, with open hearts and minds, grounded in mutual respect and trust.

As Medicine Hat continues on its path to truth and reconciliation, the city reaffirms its commitment to learning from the past, taking meaningful action in the present, and building a future where all voices are heard and valued.

Shona Dickie is manager of community supports for the City of Medicine Hat

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