Decolonizing Public Spaces and Community Engagement through Indigenous Placekeeping and Partnerships

During the panel session, the speakers will discuss various initiatives to decolonize public spaces and promote community engagement through Indigenous placekeeping and partnerships. The panelists will explore the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples to access urban parklands for their ceremonies and cultural practices, identify the barriers they face, and discuss strategies for collaboration. The speakers will share their insights and experiences on how governments can acknowledge past harms, commit to change, and work together with Indigenous communities to create inclusive and respectful public spaces. This panel will offer valuable insights for fostering equity and healing in our shared environments, with examples ranging from Toronto’s Reconciliation Action Plan to initiatives in Portland, Oregon.