OUTLINE FOR CREATING A LAND ACKNOWLEDGMENT STATEMENT
The outline below provides some general research information on land acknowledgement
statements.
A. What is Land Acknowledgement?
A Land Acknowledgement is a formal statement that recognizes and respects the indigenous
peoples as traditional stewards of this land, the enduring relationship that exists between
indigenous peoples and their traditional lands.
B. Why do we acknowledge the land?
To recognize the land is an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose
homelands you reside on and a recognition of the original people who have been living and
working on the land from time immemorial. It is important to realize the longstanding history
that has brought you to reside on the lands and to seek to appreciate your place within that
history. Land acknowledgements do not exist in past tense or outside historical context. The
use of a land acknowledgement statement also encourages individuals to think about what it
means to occupy space on indigenous lands.
C. How do we acknowledge the land?
There are different methods to acknowledge the land, such as a verbal acknowledgement by
a host of an event or meeting, or a written statement.
D. When and where do we acknowledge the land?
Land Acknowledgement can occur at the opening of an event (e.g., sports, graduation
performance), first day of class, before a special meeting or event, etc.
E. Creating a Land Acknowledgement should be motivated by a genuine respect for
Indigenous nations and communities.
Reaching out to local Indigenous communities to ask how they would like to be acknowledged
is crucial. This is the most respectful approach as it recognizes the sovereignty of Indigenous
nations to define their own terms. Acknowledgements are a collaborative process to be formed
through continuous relationships with Indigenous people.
An acknowledgment begins as a spoken embodied action. It is also appropriate for institutions
to adopt material versions (i.e., plaque or text panel). Land or territorial acknowledgement
statements can take many forms.
F. Questions to ask before starting work on your land acknowledgment statement.
• Why am I doing this land acknowledgment? (For example, are you hoping to inspire
others to take action to support Indigenous communities.)
• What is my end goal? (What do you hope listeners will do after hearing the
acknowledgment?)
• When will I have the largest impact? (Think about your timing and audience,
specifically.)
