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Fernie set to endorse C2C program with First Nations
By Erin Knutson
City of Fernie council March 26 unanimously supported a Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) grant initiative to improve relations with Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi community.
As a member of the Ktunaxa Nation, the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi entered into talks with Fernie to create the opportunity to engage in Community-to-Community (C2C) interactions to increase communication, foster new relationships, and support truth and reconciliation through the help of a C2C Program Grant application to secure upwards of $20,000 in funds to be used jointly by the two parties elected officials and staff members for governance of policy.
“The C2C funding stream is an opportunity to finance this work, as it provides up to $20,000, split evenly between C2C forums, and the preparation of C2C agreements while supporting joint review of bylaws/policies,” said Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Michael Boronowski.
If the application is successful, Fernie will manage the details of the grant and be among the municipalities that will help open the discourse and build a new infrastructure of action and engagement between local government and First Nations communities.
“The grant would allow us to act in a C2C forum to agree on protocols, frameworks, and calls to action to create integrated mandates and support reconciliation,” said Boronowski.
Staff and council acknowledged the initiative as a good learning opportunity and an excellent first step in building relationships.
“While not a formal representation of C2C-funded activities, council should look forward to attending the annual border walk in recognition of National Indigenous Peoples Day and National Truth and Reconciliation Day,” said Boronowski.
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