FORT MCMURRAY – Indigenous Reconciliation Artworks and a Talking Stick are now on display in RMWB council chambers.
A special unveiling ceremony was held on Monday, after a council motion back in 2019 got the ball rolling on the project.
The ceremony included an opening blessing by Elder Robert Cree and also included words from Elder Alice Martin.
According to a press release from the RMWB, the art is meant to represent “the Municipality’s ongoing commitment to truth and reconciliation and acknowledges Indigenous Peoples as the original stewards of the land.”
The lead artist for the project was Frederick R. McDonald of the Fort McKay First Nation and Elder Shirley Arthurs created the Talking Stick.
The ‘Seven Sacred Teachings’ of Honesty, Love, Truth, Humility, Wisdom, Courage, and Respect are common themes among the pieces.
“The artworks in our Council Chambers help us acknowledge the truth of Indigenous Peoples and their experiences,” said Mayor Sandy Bowman.
“I hope this serves as a constant reminder that through art, we can unite in reconciliation and foster understanding. We can – and we will – continue to recognize Indigenous Peoples lived experiences and their everlasting contributions to this region. My deepest appreciation goes to everyone that played a role in making this a reality.”
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