By Adam Ophus

Flag Raising

Rocky takes huge step towards reconciliation

Jun 22, 2021 | 11:10 AM

As part of National Indigenous People’s Day, the Town of Rocky Mountain House held a flag raising ceremony Monday as part of the Commission of Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation call to action.

Both the Treaty Six Territory and Métis flags have been raised in front of town office alongside the flag of Town Council, Alberta and Canada. Local drum circle group Soaring Hawk sang a flag raising honour song while both flags rose to fly alongside and on par with the others.

Mayor Tammy Burke spoke of the historical and current contributions of the First Nations and Métis people.

“This event solidifies our ongoing commitment to reconciliation,” she said, “and is a step forward to building a community where racism and hate are not tolerated.”

The Town of Rocky welcomed O’Chiese First Nation Chief Doug Beaverbones and Council, O’Chiese First Nation Elder Theresa Strawberry and John Strawberry. Sunchild Fist Nation Chief Jonathan Frencheater, Council and Elders as well as Métis Local 845 President Bernie Ouellette.

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Chief Beaverbones thanked everyone in attendance and noted the significance of the flag raising. He also spoke about the difficulties he has seen his people have in the area.

“I don’t want to say this, but I see that sometimes there is racism. We all grew up around here and we shop here daily. We do things daily in Rocky and that’s one thing I didn’t like seeing. Because I’ve faced that many times.”

Chief Beaverbones commented that he hopes the reconciliation continues and that they can all work together.

Ouellette spoke of the hardships the indigenous people have endured in 2021, between the residential school discovery in Kamloops B.C. and COVID-19.

“The indigenous people have proved its resilience once again,” Ouellette proudly stated. “We continue to stand strong.”

Rocky town council passed a series of resolutions on June 15 regarding the calls to action that directly pertained to the municipality. Specifically on the actions of 40, 47, 57, 88, and 90. Mayor and Council will be engaging with the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association (AUMA) seeking First Nations participation in the AUMA.

Regarding the Sports and Reconciliation, the Town will be asking all local sport leaders what kind of efforts they are making to address anti-racism awareness and training. Rocky Mountain House will also be investigating the possibility of hosting either the Indigenous Games or events at the North Saskatchewan River Park. This year’s Alberta Indigenous Games will be August 12- 19 at Rundle Park in Edmonton.