I was recently invited to a community engagement session for a local library aiming to ‘Indigenize’ its space with Indigenous art and design. When I asked if representatives from local First Nations had also been invited, the answer was disheartening: no, only Indigenous peoples living in the region had been included. This scenario epitomizes a pervasive issue in our society: the ongoing disregard for Indigenous cultural protocols and the dangerous assumption that any Indigenous identity is interchangeable with another.
Indigenous peoples are not homogenous; we are intricately tied to specific lands and communities. Our traditional teachings, medicines, laws, and stories are profoundly linked to our territories. For Indigenous peoples living outside of our traditional territories, it’s crucial to recognize that we are residing on the lands of other nations. We, too, are guests here, and we must honour the unique histories and protocols associated with those lands.
Cultural protocols dictate how we interact with one another and the land. They are vital for maintaining the integrity of our identities and safeguarding the rights of the communities we represent. When these protocols are overlooked, the consequences can be far-reaching. The tensions during the trucker convoy protests in early 2022 are a striking example.
The Algonquin Nation, whose unceded territory includes Ottawa, issued a statement expressing profound concerns about the protests and the unauthorized use of their land. As Algonquin Elder Claudette Commanda poignantly stated, “We never provided any permission for anyone to use any portion of our unsurrendered, unceded homeland for any of this kind of rally, gathering, protest, or even ceremonies.” This statement highlights a critical truth: ignoring the boundaries and protocols established by Indigenous communities leads to further encroachment on their rights and lands. Indigenous guests in the territory can also contribute to the neglect of Indigenous diplomacy.
The library’s attempt to ‘Indigenize’ its space without consulting local First Nations exemplifies a broader societal trend of tokenism. Such actions often disregard genuine engagement and respect for cultural protocols, perpetuating the very colonial mindset that has contributed to the historical and ongoing dispossession of Indigenous lands.
To move forward, institutions and individuals must prioritize authentic relationships with Indigenous communities. This starts with acknowledging the unique cultural protocols tied to specific lands and actively involving the appropriate Indigenous representatives. Only through genuine engagement can we address the historical injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and foster a more respectful and inclusive society.
In conclusion, ignoring Indigenous cultural protocols not only disrespects the communities involved but also perpetuates a legacy of colonialism that continues to affect our society today. As neighbours living in this era of reconciliation, recognizing and respecting these protocols is essential for building authentic relationships, promoting healing, and ensuring that the voices of Indigenous peoples are honoured and heard. As we navigate the complexities of cultural identity, let us commit to learning from and working alongside Indigenous nations, respecting their lands and sovereignty at every step of the way.