City of Regina to fight racism with education

The City of Regina’s Mayor Michael Fougere signed a memorandum of understanding with the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations pledging to combat racism in First Nations’ ancestral lands.

Fougere becomes the second municipal leader to sign the MOU, after Elbow Mayor Rob Hundeby.

The agreement commits to provide educational initiatives for all staff and elected officials on the subjects of the history of treates, residential schools, colonialism, and the treaty and inherent rights of First Nations people.

“As treaty partners it is incumbent on us to understand each other’s history,” said Fougere. “Education is key in ensuring that we at the City of Regina act with the best interests of all of our citizens in mind, and providing training and education to our staff is a huge part of addressing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.”

Racism is a learned behaviour, and it can be unlearned, said Chief Bobby Cameron.

“Education and awareness is essential to addressing the issue of racism in our communities. We do this not just for ourselves, but for our ancestors, children, grandchildren, and for all those yet to come. Our ancestors who signed the treaties call upon us to live together in peace and harmony on our ancestral lands,” Cameron said.