SASKATOON — The Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association and the Office of the Treaty Commissioner on Monday, Nov. 3, signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen its Treaty relations among urban municipalities in the province.
The signing, between Treaty Commissioner Dr. Kathy Walker and SUMA President Randy Goulden, happened after a pipe ceremony at the OTC office located at Grasswood Road south of the city.
The MOU aims to have the OTC and SUMA work together to promote understanding of Treaty rights and Truth and Reconciliation among Saskatchewan’s urban municipalities, and to facilitate relationship-building between First Nations and municipalities.
“SUMA is demonstrating great leadership in committing to strengthening Treaty relations among urban municipalities in Saskatchewan. This partnership embodies living the Treaties through education, recognition of our shared history, collaborative problem-solving and respectful relations. It is rooted in mutual respect and wītaskēwin, or living together in peace and harmony, for our mutual benefit,” said Walker.
Goulden added that Saskatchewan’s municipalities and First Nations have been each other’s neighbours since before Saskatchewan even became a province.
“We’re grateful to work with the [OTC] to make sure urban municipalities have the knowledge and tools they need to collaborate with First Nations partners and advance shared priorities, including updated infrastructure, economic development and community safety,” said Goulden.
SUMA and the OTC recognize that all urban municipalities in Saskatchewan are located within Treaty territories, making their residents Treaty people. All Saskatchewan residents, including those within First Nations and non-First Nations communities, stand to benefit from strengthened Treaty relationships.
By deepening understanding and co-operation, SUMA and the OTC aim to create stronger, more inclusive communities where the principles of the Treaties guide respectful and productive relationships across Saskatchewan.
