Elder Protocol

Elders are the knowledge keepers of our lands, traditions, spirituality, and culture. They are pillars in our communities, they are our teachers and guides.

They walk softly in the quiet places of the earth and listen.

Just as elders have respect for our histories, our futures, our family circles, our elements: earth, wind, fire and water, our land and all it provides, so to must we have the utmost respect for them.

Elders play vital roles in our communities and carry out many duties.

The following links are resource guides published by reputable institutions regarding land acknowledgment and proper elder protocols.

These are guides. It is recommended that you ensure due diligence in your research prior to requesting the presence of an elder at your event. Protocols may differ from region to region and among the different Indigenous groups.

Links for Elder Protocol

Guide to Acknowledging First Peoples & Traditional Territory:
https://www.caut.ca/content/guide-acknowledging-first-peoples-traditional-territory

Elders Protocol from the University of Winnipeg:
www.uwinnipeg.ca/institutional-analysis/docs/policies/elders-protocol-policy.pdf

University of Manitoba Elders and Culture Protocol:
https://umanitoba.ca/indigenous/culture-and-protocol

Ceremonial Tobacco:
https://motherearthtobacco.com/

Traditional Land Acknowledgement Information:

“What are Traditional Land Acknowledgement Statements?

Traditional land acknowledgement statements are a reminder that we all must continue to strengthen the relationships and understanding between non-Indigenous and Indigenous peoples.

Traditional land acknowledgements are increasingly being used in Canada by governments, schools, post-secondary institutions, non-governmental organizations, and other civil institutions as a practice of reconciliation aimed at recognizing the traditional or treaty territories of Indigenous peoples. The statements are typically made at the introduction of meetings, gatherings, events, or presentations. Some are featured on organization websites or event description pages. They are commonly modelled after Indigenous protocols.”
https://www.amo.on.ca/AMO-Content/Policy-Updates/2018/GuidanceonTraditionalLandAcknowledgementStatement