The Saskatoon Open Door Society (SODS) and the Office of the Treaty Commissioner (OTC) have committed through signing a Memorandum of Understanding to an ongoing positive partnership to foster and build strong relationships between children of Indigenous communities and new immigrants.

Through this initiative, children and youth from both communities will have opportunities to learn and absorb each other’s cultures and form long lasting bonds for a harmonious future in Canada.  Working together SODS and the OTC will develop a cultural exchange program that provides youth an opportunity to interact, share history, and learn from one another.

“The OTC is pleased to be partnering with the Saskatoon Open Door Society to grow relationships between students and see them not only exchange information, but their aspirations and dreams. Youth are key to reconciliation and the future of the Treaty relationship,” said Mary Culbertson, Treaty Commissioner of Saskatchewan.

“Creating this partnerhip supports newcomer youth in learning the true story of Canada’s history with Indigenous peoples, promotes Treaty Awareness and Treaty Implemtnation though understanding identity and the roles and responsibilities associated with We are all Treaty People.”

The partnership aims to promote language retention and revitalization. By recognizing the importance of keeping languages intact, the Memorandum of Understanding makes a commitment to keep our cultures strong. There is an urge for cultural information and inclusive cultural practices focusing on diversity, anti-racism, reconciliation and Treaty implementation within First Nation, Me?tis and immigrant youth and their families making Saskatoon their home. This empowering cultural amalgamation will bring strength to Saskatoon community by building stronger leaders and role models for our community.