25 Purpose and Practice of Land Acknowledgements

What is a Land Acknowledgement?

A land acknowledgement is a formal statement that recognizes the ongoing relationship between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories. The University of Toronto (n.d.) defines it as:

“The Land Acknowledgement is a formal statement recognizing the unique and enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories.“

In Canada, offering a land acknowledgement is one way to show respect for Indigenous communities and to reflect on our responsibilities as settlers, allies, or treaty partners.

Why do People Acknowledge the Land?

Land acknowledgements are often shared at the beginning of meetings, classes, presentations, or events. As a future leader or communicator, you may be expected to offer one. Here’s why it matters:

To recognize the land is an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory you reside on, and a way of honouring the Indigenous people who have been living and working on the land from time immemorial…colonialism is a current ongoing process, and we need to build our mindfulness of our present participation. It is also worth noting that acknowledging the land is Indigenous protocol. — Laurier Students’ Public Interest Research Group (LSPIRG), n.d.

Land acknowledgements are more than a formality. They are an invitation to reflect, listen, and act with intention.

When and Where to Offer a Land Acknowledgement

Land acknowledgements are commonly shared at the start of:

• Classes
• Meetings
• Conferences
• Ceremonies
• Public events or presentations.

They’re typically offered after welcoming the audience and before beginning formal remarks. If you are the host or lead speaker, it’s your responsibility to give the acknowledgement—don’t delegate it to someone else. As a future leader or communicator, preparing a land acknowledgement for your workplace or community events is a meaningful way to show respect and awareness.

Best Practices for Giving a Land Acknowledgement

To deliver a meaningful and respectful land acknowledgement, follow these guidlines developed by The Laurier Students’ Public Interest Research Group (LSPIRG) (n.d.):

• Do your research. Learn the name(s) of the Nation(s), territory, or treaty connected to the land you’re on. If you’re unsure, ask at a Friendship Centre, Aboriginal Student Centre, or local Band Office.
• Say it yourself. The host or speaker should offer the acknowledgement—not delegate it.
• Practice pronunciation. Asking for help or listening to recorded pronunciation demonstrates care and respect.
• Offer thanks. Express gratitude to the host Nation whether or not Indigenous people are present.
• Be sincere. A land acknowledgement should not be rushed or treated as a checkbox. Speak thoughtfully and respectfully.

Moving Beyond Land Acknowledgement

Offering a land acknowledgement is a good first step—but it’s just the beginning. Supporting Indigenous communities and acting as an ally requires ongoing learning and reflection.

We are all treaty people. That means we share responsibility for creating respectful, equitable relationships. Allyship is not a label—it’s a practice.

Three Ways to Start

1. Learn

Take the time to understand:

• Indigenous Peoples, cultures, and histories

• Colonialism and its ongoing impacts

• The land you live on

• How power and privilege shape communication

Books, blogs, media, and creative work by Indigenous authors and artists are excellent starting points.

2. Build Relationships

Respectful communication starts with real relationships. Connect with Indigenous groups on campus or in your community. Listen, show up, and build trust over time.

3. Take Action

Take action by standing with Indigenous people. This includes the following:

• Speak up when you hear something harmful

• Amplify Indigenous voices

• Support events and community efforts
• Stay open to feedback, and commit to growth

Attribution

This section contains material taken from “Land Acknowledgement” and from “Know the land territories campaign,” and is used under Section 30.04 of The Copyright Act.