Land Acknowledgement and Commitment to Reconciliation
RIDI operates on Treaty 1 territory, the traditional homelands of the Anishinaabeg, Cree, Anisininew, Dakota, and Dene Peoples, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. We acknowledge Shoal Lake 40 First Nation as the source of water for this region.
We recognize that design and development have been part of colonial histories that have harmed lands, waters, and Indigenous communities. As design professionals, we acknowledge this responsibility and are committed to ongoing learning, Truth and Reconciliation, and more just and equitable practice.
We honour the Indigenous peoples who continue to care for these lands and waters, and we offer this acknowledgement with respect, humility, and a commitment to meaningful action.
Community Based Education and Understanding Indigenous Histories
Community-based education is a vital expression of Indigenous self-determination. Across Canada, Indigenous communities continue to revitalize culture, reclaim language, and reshape education in ways that respond to both historical and present-day realities. Recognizing this work is essential to understanding the strength, continuity, and identity of Indigenous peoples.
Canada’s history begins with Indigenous peoples. Within an ongoing settler-colonial context, First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities continue to lead conversations around sovereignty, land, restitution, and reconciliation. As the fastest-growing population in Canada, Indigenous peoples are central to our shared future. We believe foundational learning is an important step toward deeper understanding and continued engagement.
Indigenous Engagement and Practice
We are committed to respectful and authentic engagement with Indigenous communities throughout all stages of project planning and delivery. Our approach is guided by reconciliation principles that prioritize cultural awareness, collaboration, and capacity building, ensuring Indigenous voices are meaningfully represented.
Our practice includes collaborating with Indigenous designers, engaging Indigenous businesses for procurement opportunities, and supporting Indigenous participation on jobsites. We also encourage relationship-building with Elders and Indigenous Knowledge Keepers to help ensure design outcomes are culturally appropriate, grounded, and reflective of community values.
To strengthen our practice, all RIDI employees complete Indigenous cultural sensitivity training through the University of Alberta’s Indigenous Canada course. We have also led inclusive design charrettes with Indigenous students, faculty, and Elders to help ensure project goals reflect community perspectives and priorities. Wherever possible, we seek to work with Indigenous-owned businesses and consultants to support mentorship, knowledge sharing, and capacity building.
Walking the Shared Path of Reconciliation
Reconciliation is an ongoing commitment to listening, learning, and working in partnership with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. It calls on us to deepen our understanding of Indigenous rights, histories, cultures, languages, and perspectives, while acknowledging the ongoing impacts of systemic racism and inequity.
RIDI is grateful for the contributions and insights of Indigenous collaborators and clients. We are committed to creating a practice and studio culture where Indigenous peoples feel welcomed, respected, and supported to thrive. This work continues to evolve, and we remain committed to moving forward with humility, accountability, and care.