District of Taylor explores land acknowledgement policy

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The District of Taylor has approved the first draft of its new First Nations Land Acknowledgement Policy. 

During the December 15th meeting of the District of Taylor council, the district’s new First Nations Land Acknowledgement Policy was reviewed and approved for future use. 

The policy means the council will deliver a land acknowledgement at the start of open council and committee meetings.

The policy affirms the municipality’s “commitment to recognizing and respecting the unique and enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous people and their traditional territories.”

“This policy establishes a consistent, meaningful practice that aligns municipal governance with

principles of respect, inclusion and reconciliation,” the report from staff stated. 

This is done to “honour” the First Nations within the community, support reconciliation between the municipality and First Nations and ensure municipal decision-making starts with “a moment of reflection on the land, its history and collective responsibilities.” 

The district’s land acknowledgement, which was created by a dedicated committee in 2025, states: “The District of Taylor recognizes with respect, this traditional territory of Treaty 8. We honour the deep connection to the land and water, where everyone’s rights are respected, and opportunities are available for all to thrive.”

The policy was presented as a ‘first draft’ by staff, and will be presented to the council again at a later date for final approval and adoption.