The City of Yellowknife has hired a new Indigenous Relations Advisor, the city announced in a press release today.
Maggie Mercredi has assumed the newly established position with the city.
Ms. Mercredi is Denesoline and lives in Yellowknife.
“As Indigenous Relations Advisor, Maggie will provide guidance on how the City can enhance relationships with Indigenous peoples and governments, and embed reconciliation into our core practices and decision-making – from programs, to services and strategies,” the city’s press release states.
In June, the city announced it was creating the new position to “provide guidance on how the City can enhance their relationships with Indigenous peoples and cultures.”
“The City of Yellowknife is actively working towards reconciliation and enhancing inclusion for Indigenous people to be empowered to apply for positions within the City of Yellowknife and on City Council, and to fully engage in City services and civic life,” says Mayor Mark Heyck in a statement.
“Maggie will enhance our work as leaders and role models in our relations with Indigenous people, groups, organizations and governments. A focus on reconciliation is at the heart of this beautiful City, built on Chief Drygeese Territory, home to many Indigenous and non-Indigenous people from across Canada.”
Reporting to the city administrator, Ms.Mercredi will make recommendations on the City’s core practices and the decision-making procedures, working with internal and external partners, in support of reconciliation and inclusiveness.
She will also coordinate the development of an “Action Plan on Reconciliation” which will be used by all city departments.
“Reconciliation happens when we build bridges, honour our relationships and commit to changes together,” says Ms. Mercredi in a statement.
“I want to work closely with City Departments, Indigenous governments, coalition groups and organizations, to build upon the current working relationship we have and collectively create a plan that will bring our communities together.”
Funding to staff the position for 18 months is secured and options to ensure sustainability beyond that are being considered.
