Indigenous Peoples presence in the Americas reaches back to time immemorial. I recognize that Indigenous Peoples are the keepers and defenders of the land, animals and water. I acknowledge the historical oppression of lands, cultures and the original Peoples in what we now know as Canada.  I believe that the Arts contribute to the healing and decolonizing journey we all share.

In the spirit of reconciliation, I gratefully acknowledge that I live, work and play on the traditional territories of Indigenous Peoples. This includes the Iyarhe Nakoda Nations (Bearspaw, Goodstoney, Chiniki), the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika,Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut’ina in Treaty 7 region, also traditionally, spirituality and culturally shared with Ktunaxa, Secwépemc, Mountain Cree and with the Rockyview Métis District #4 - Battle River Territory of Southern Alberta. I also acknowledge that my family home is located on the traditional territories of Neyiyaw (Cree), Dene, Stoney-Nakota Sioux, Saulteaux, and Ojibwe in Treaty 6 region and with the Edmonton Whitemud Métis District #10 of the North Saskatchewan Territory and the Red Deer Métis District #3 - Battle River Territory of Central Alberta.