On November 21, members of the CMS Belonging in Unceded Territory research project gathered for a hybrid presentation of the findings to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The session illuminated ongoing efforts to integrate Indigenous perspectives into Canadian citizenship practices, shedding light on the colonial underpinnings of citizenship ceremonies and the steps being taken to address them.
A key initiative that was highlighted was the production of Welcome: There Is Room, a video created by the Indigenous-led Spruce Creative in collaboration with the First Peoples Group, which is shown at the beginning of all citizenship ceremonies to honour Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action 57, 62, and 92.
Following the project presentation by Dr. Antje Ellermann and Indigenous cultural facilitators Sussan Yáñez, Chepximiya Siyam’ Chief Janice George, and Skwetsimeltxw Willard “Buddy” Joseph, the discussion broadened to consider the tension between colonial institutional frameworks and Indigenous relational practices. Speakers noted the challenge of respecting Indigenous ways of knowing and being within rigid government and educational structures. Other participants, such as project partner AMSSA CEO Katie Crocker, pointed out the misalignment between institutional deadlines and land-based rhythms, calling for funding models and processes that prioritize relationships over outputs.
The session highlighted the need for ongoing dialogue and action. While progress has been made in increasing Indigenous leadership in ceremonies, gaps remain, such as the underrepresentation of Indigenous perspectives in citizenship tests and study materials. Corrina Clement, Director of Citizenship Program Delivery, reaffirmed IRCC’s commitment to updating these tools to reflect Indigenous realities and contributions. However, participants also acknowledged the inherent limitations of reforms within an institution fundamentally rooted in colonial structures.
Presentation to IRCC
Dr. Antje Ellermann, Principal Investigator
Presentation to IRCC
Presentation to IRCC
Sussan Yáñez, Cultural Facilitator
Presentation to IRCC
Sussan Yáñez, Chepximiya Siyam’ Chief Janice George, and Skwetsimeltxw Willard “Buddy” Joseph, Cultural Facilitators
Presentation to IRCC
Chepximiya Siyam’ Chief Janice George, Cultural Facilitator
Presentation to IRCC
Dr. Antje Ellermann, Sussan Yáñez, Skwetsimeltxw Willard “Buddy” Joseph, Chepximiya Siyam’ Chief Janice George, Dr. Sean Lauer, Dr. Clare Haru Crowston, Katie Crocker, Winnie Chironga, and Dr. Lisa Brunner
