“Acknowledging the land, and all the life within it, in various ways is something that First Nations, Inuit and Métis people have done for generations,” said Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann (PhD), the vice-provost of Indigenous Engagement at USask. “Expressions of gratitude and respect for the land, was practiced long before European settlers arrived on Turtle Island. Indigenous people have had an intimate relationship and knowledge of these places and spaces.

“Land acknowledgement pays respect to those from our past and also those who will experience our territories in generations to come. Land acknowledgments should be respectful, be reverent to the Creator, recognize the need for the right relationship, be communicated with humility and gratitude.”

Dr. Ottmann emphasized as well that, “Land acknowledgement is a small step in the right direction, and the next step is educating non- Indigenous and Indigenous people of its significance and some of the work that has already happened in this area. The land is life and it determines and supports our existence - the quality of our health.”

"While renewing the connection to the land, we are reminded of the constitutional foundation of Saskatchewan and how we are all reliant on one another.  This renewed relationship could be part of healing, and strengthening the spirit of reconciliation. We have the opportunity to help realize the treaty promises made with Indigenous peoples, to honour the past and the future through traditional and cultural values such as identity, kinship, language and ceremony. The spirit of reconciliation along with meaningful community engagement can strengthen our university, province and country."

- Dr. Jacqueline Ottmann (PhD), the vice-provost of Indigenous Engagement at the University of Saskatchewan

“It was important to everyone that we emphasize that the land acknowledgements be delivered in a respectful and insightful manner,” said Wasacase-Lafferty. “This statement was certainly a good way to begin.”

- Candace  Wasacase-Lafferty, citizen of the Kahkewistahaw First Nation & the Senior Director of Indigenous Initiatives & Community Relations at the University of Saskatchewan

We at, Nipawin Youth Soccer, understand that the classroom is not the only learning environment; sport has the ability to shape us into better people. We understand that organized sport bridges communities, cultures and differences better than any other setting. While on the field, we are players, teammates and friends. If everyone comes to sport with respect, understanding and the spirit of fair play; then we begin to move in the right direction for the future.

Any step, no matter how small, is still movement towards the goal.