Parks Canada Launches Indigenous Stewardship Policy

Parks Canada has launched the Indigenous Stewardship Policy, recognizing and supporting Indigenous stewardship in all places Parks Canada plays a role.

“The Indigenous Stewardship Policy is a significant step by the Government of Canada to meet the commitments made through the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan.”, said Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada.

“This policy represents a true partnership between Indigenous Peoples and Parks Canada, where Indigenous knowledge systems, governance structures and stewardship practices will guide our collective efforts.”

The policy is aimed at strengthening the connections between Indigenous Peoples and the protected lands, waters and ice located within their traditional territories, treaty lands and ancestral homelands—and advance measures identified in the Government of Canada United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan.

The Indigenous Stewardship Policy will guide the implementation of the Indigenous Stewardship Framework and create conditions that support cultural continuity, cultural safety, and healing for Indigenous Peoples.

The new policy is grounded in four key principles: Respect for Indigenous Rights, duties, and responsibilities; fostering ethical spaces by establishing respectful relationships, grounded in truth-telling and culturally safe spaces.

This also means that Parks Canada will work with Indigenous Peoples to support stewardship that is informed by Indigenous knowledge and worldviews; Nurturing healthy, respectful relationships; and ensuring continuity of Indigenous culture and language.

This policy will apply to all places Parks Canada plays a role in administering, including national historic sites, national parks, national marine conservation areas, and other protected heritage areas.

To learn more, visit Indigenous Stewardship Policy.