Cowichan Tribes and the City of Duncan have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening their government-to-government relationship.
In a joint statement, the two governments said the agreement establishes a framework for ongoing communication and collaboration.
The MOU commits both sides to identifying opportunities to work together and supporting greater understanding of Cowichan Tribes’ teachings and connection to its traditional territory.
Chief Cindy Daniels said the agreement will help strengthen relationships, share teachings and deepen understanding of Quw’utsun Mustimuhw and their connection to the land.
“Building strong relationships with our neighbours is important to Cowichan Tribes. This agreement gives us a stronger foundation to work together, share our teachings, and build greater understanding of Quw’utsun Mustimuhw and our connection to the lands in our Traditional Territory,” said Daniels. “We look forward to continuing this relationship with the City of Duncan in a good way and finding opportunities that benefit our communities for generations to come.”
Outgoing Duncan Mayor Michelle Staples said the agreement is intended to guide future generations through a commitment to learning, respect and continued co-operation, including through difficult conversations.
“This agreement represents a commitment to a relationship that extends beyond everyone who had a hand in its creation. My hope is that this agreement will be honoured through learning, respect, kindness and generosity alongside the willingness to continue working through difficult times and conversations,” said Staples. “This agreement we signed today will help lay a foundation that future leaders and generations will build upon, grounded in the understanding that these relationships and the process of working together have deep value and matter to us all.”
The agreement was signed Friday, Oct. 9, at the Khowutzun Heritage Centre in Duncan.
