Iitsihtaana - Momentum's Indigenous Engagement Strategy

In June 2017, Blackfoot Elder Clarence Wolfleg, along with Roy Bear Chief, performed a blessing ceremony in the presence of Momentum staff to recognize and legitimize Momentum's Indigenous Engagement Strategy in a way consistent with Indigenous traditions. During the ceremony, the written strategy was placed inside of a bundle and given the name Iitsihtaana (ee-tseeh-taa-nii), which means will, state of mind and thoughts. The bundle and associated blessing ceremony serve as an Indigenous parallel to creating a written strategy.

We're committed to becoming a trusted partner in reconciliation with Indigenous communities. As we walk this journey, we engage through internal and external collaborations, exercises, and learnings, continually exploring how we must undo settler mindsets. Integrating Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into our programming, messaging, and organizational culture is an ongoing commitment.

Read Iitsihtaana - Momentum's Indigenous Engagement Strategy in full here.

Statements from Momentum's Board of Directors

"Engaging Indigenous communities in Calgary is integral to our ability to advance our goals of an inclusive local economy, shared prosperity, and poverty reduction."

"Partnering with Indigenous communities and embracing their traditions, values and culture, including through the incorporation of Indigenous approaches in our programming, can strengthen and add richness to our work."

"We all have a lot to learn about the history of our country - particularly regarding the lasting impacts of colonialism."

"Reconciliation - the journey of learning and healing we are all on together - goes beyond our work here at Momentum and touches all Canadians."