The Alberta Association of Optometrists is committed to advancing Truth and Reconciliation and to understanding the responsibilities this creates for our profession. Territorial acknowledgement is one expression of that commitment and of our responsibility to listen, learn, build relationships, and contribute to culturally safe and equitable eye and vision care.

Optometrists live and practise across what is now known as Alberta, encompassing Treaties 6, 7 and 8 and within the historic and contemporary Métis Homeland. We honour the First Nations and Métis peoples whose histories, cultures, communities, governance and relationships with these lands continue today. We also recognize the diverse Indigenous peoples from across Canada, including Inuit, who now make their homes in Alberta and whom our profession has the privilege and responsibility to serve.

Amiskwacîwâskahikan (Edmonton) — The Alberta Association of Optometrists' office is located within Treaty 6 territory and the Edmonton Whitemud Métis District. We acknowledge the First Nations and Métis peoples who have longstanding relationships with these lands and waters, and recognize that these relationships continue today through families, communities, culture, governance and responsibility to place. We also honour the Inuit who call this region home and the distinct cultures, knowledge and perspectives they contribute to our shared community.

We recognize that territorial acknowledgement carries responsibility. As a health profession, we commit to listening to Indigenous peoples, strengthening relationships, continuing to learn, and working toward culturally safe, respectful and equitable eye and vision care for First Nations, Métis and Inuit peoples.