The CERI team is committed to minimizing barriers between Indigenous expertise and western science practices as we research and restore eelgrass meadows around Mi’kma’ki. We understand that ongoing engagement and collaboration with Indigenous communities and knowledge holders is the only true way forward for conservation and stewardship of this significant species.  

Members of CERI are taking steps to educate ourselves on the guiding principles Netukulimk and Etuaptmumk , working toward best practices in understanding and sustaining eelgrass and its significance. However, we are committed to improving our practice of integrating and elevating these guiding principles, as well as continuing to learn and adapt our research methods and restoration techniques. 

How CERI is committed to reconciliation:

Understanding that changes need to be made in how conservation efforts in Mi’kma’ki are managed, including the use of multiple knowledge systems and expertise 

Acknowledging failed systems and their impacts on both people and environment, and working toward applying new practices by partnering with Indigenous communities and knowledge holders 

Learning about barriers that have been created between Mi’kmaw communities, the Provincial government, and western academic institutions and fostering better communication and representation from these communities and organizations 

Learning communities’ initiatives and expectations from the work carried out by CERI and adapting our work to accommodate the needs of all involved 

Guided by Etuaptmumk – using strengths from different knowledge systems to gain a truer understanding of eelgrass and its significance 

Honoring the practice of Netukulimk by ensuring the actions we take today serve the land and people for generations to come

Reflecting on how past and current practices cause harm to the ecosystems that provide critical habitat to culturally significant species and altering our work to avoid perpetuating negative impacts while spreading awareness  

Working with Mi’kmaw artists to develop different ways to showcase the significance of eelgrass to communities and the work completed by CERI and partner communities 

Promoting and supporting community-led replanting events

Understanding that truth and reconciliation is a continued learning journey that requires open-mindedness and adaptation

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) was established to educate Canadians about residential schools and the impacts they had and continue to have on individuals, families, and communities. Between 2007 and 2015, the TRC heard from over 6500 witnesses around Canada, compiling a record of the residential schools, and hosting national events to educate and promote awareness to the Canadian public about the history and lasting effects of residential schools. The TRC released the final report in 2015 which includes the commission’s findings on the residential school system, Ten Principles for Reconciliation, and 94 Calls to Action to help guide reconciliation between Indigenous peoples and Canadians. The historical record that was compiled and includes more than 5 million records of the residential schools system is now housed at the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation. 

To learn more about the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada please visit: 

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – NCTR  

Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (rcaanc-cirnac.gc.ca) 

United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) is an international framework that outlines minimal standards for the recognition, protection, and promotion of Indigenous Rights.

On June 21st 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act (UNDA) became law in Canada. UNDA is intended to ensure that the standards of the Declaration are applied to Canadian legislation and policy. The Act guided the development of the UN Declaration Act Action Plan, which was released in June 2023, and developed in collaboration between First Nations, Inuit, and Métis organizations and the Government of Canada. The Action Plan is an evolving document that holds the Government of Canada accountable for implementation and provides guidance to address injustices and promote equality and prosperity for Indigenous peoples. [The Action Plan (justice.gc.ca)]

To learn more about the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and the United Nations Declaration Act Action Plan, please visit:  

UNDRIP: 

UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples | OHCHR

The UN Declaration explained (justice.gc.ca)

The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples:

UNDRIP_E_web.pdf

UNDA: 

An important step in upholding the human rights of Indigenous peoples in Canada – Canada.ca 

Action Plan: 

The Action Plan (justice.gc.ca)