Cool Aid’s territorial acknowledgment attempts to do more than just recognize the names of the traditional lands on which we live and work. We would also like it to serve as a reminder to walk lightly and work mindfully on this unceded territory of the Lkwungen (Lekwungen) peoples, and the Songhees, Esquimalt, and W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations.
We need to acknowledge that these lands – as is most of BC – are on unceded territories. Unceded means that these lands have been encroached upon, and that there are very few treaties to acknowledge and compensate the original caretakers. The First Nations peoples who live on these lands have a historical relationship to the land that continues to this day.
Decolonization at Cool Aid
Cool Aid acknowledges the devastating impacts of colonization including, but not limited to, the displacement of peoples, and the loss of language, culture, and children on the disproportionate number of Indigenous people we serve. We are committed to decolonizing our work and our practices, and we are on a learning journey that we hope will bring us closer to understanding and incorporating Indigenous history and culture into the work we do each day.
Our strategic plan includes a foundational statement that speaks directly to our commitment, and we have included a pillar – with specific goals – dedicated to reconciliation.
Cool Aid’s strategy map.
Photo: Master Carver Carey Newman, creator of “Dancing Wind” featured at the 2010 Olympic Games, has mentored Cool Aid Indigenous tenant carvers in creating a public art installation. The 10′ totem carving will be placed in a highly visible public site to be viewed by locals and visitors alike, and to become an important cultural point of interest.
"My son has been staying at Rock Bay Landing off and on since March 2014. In fact, I’ve been there three times. Each time you have treated me with utter respect, as I know you have my son. Thank you for all you do to help. "
Parent of A Shelter Guest, Rock Bay Landing
