A new flag has taken a permanent position outside municipal hall as a symbol of Sooke’s ongoing commitment to Indigenous reconciliation.
A flag-raising ceremony Wednesday sent a new flag to the sky, representing the T’Sou-ke First Nation. The First Nation flag flies alongside the Canadian, B.C. and District of Sooke flags.
“The flying of the flag is a symbol of the district’s commitment to a reconciliation process guided by the knowledge and experience of the Te’Mexw Treaty Association and the T’Sou-ke First Nation,” said Mayor Maja Tait.
“It is an honour to work with Chief (Gordon) Planes, the T’Sou-ke First Nation council and members of both of our communities in caring for each other and our physical environment for generations to come. We are stronger together.”
RELATED STORY: Victoria’s Orange Shirt Day is born out of trauma, friendship and hope
Located in the lands of the T’Sou-ke First Nation and in Te’Mexw Treaty territory, the new permanent installation of flags at municipal hall is a symbol to residents, elected officials and the public service of “mutual respect and understanding in establishing and maintaining relationships and partnerships” in the reconciliation process, the district said in a press release.
“(The flag) displays to our communities that we are making strides in the right direction and that we are committed to protecting our lands together,” Planes said.
editor@sookenewsmirror.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter