The 2015 publication of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) report defines reconciliation as “establishing and maintaining a mutually respectful relationship between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples in this country.”
While the term reconciliation is familiar to most, translating it into action takes responsibility, recognition and respect. In keeping with the recommendations of the TRC report, and inspired by the work of the Honourable Steven Point [Xwĕ lī qwĕl tĕl], 28th Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, and a founder of the BC Reconciliation Award, the BC Achievement Foundation, in partnership with The Office of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia, launched the program in 2020.
Now in its fourth year, this award program recognizes individuals, groups and organizations who demonstrate exceptional leadership, integrity, respect and commitment to furthering reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in the province of British Columbia or inspire others to continue reconciliation efforts.
“Reconciliation serves as the foundation for forging meaningful connections and closing the gap between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Through acknowledging historical injustices and highlighting transformative initiatives, we inspire others to follow a similar path,” said Cloy-e-iis, Judith Sayers, board member of the BC Achievement Foundation. “As we step into the fourth year of the BC Reconciliation Award, we call for submission of nominations for the award program to help share the efforts of individuals and communities.”
Nominations are open for the 2024 award program at bcachievement.com but only until January 31, 2024. Up to six individuals or organizations will be recognized for their efforts, commitment and impact towards reconciliation.
“Every year we launch nominations for the BC Reconciliation Award. I grow more and more grateful for the opportunity to witness the exceptional ways in which individuals and organizations in British Columbia advance reconciliation,” said The Honourable Janet Austin, the Lieutenant Governor of BC. “It takes creativity, intelligence, but most importantly it takes courage—courage to acknowledge the injustices of the past and present, and courage to mend those wounds. I look forward to seeing this courage reflected in the 2024 nominations.”
“Nominating individuals and organizations for the BC Reconciliation Award is a powerful testament to collective pledges to healing, unity, and understanding. My hope is that this recognition continues to inspire positive change and strengthens the bonds of reconciliation in our province. As a juror and past recipient of the BC Reconciliation Award, I am humbled and honoured to witness and be a part of the transformative power of reconciliation efforts in British Columbia and encourage you to nominate those who are making a difference, change is transformative and we all must do our part,” said Chief/Kukpi7 Rosanne Casimir, former recipient and 2023 selection committee member.
The nomination period for the BC Reconciliation Award will be open until January 31, 2024. Online nominations are open on the BC Achievement Foundation website at www.bcachievement.com.
BC Achievement: Elevate Excellence. Share Success. Inspire Change.