As we navigate the digital world and participate in virtual meetings and events, it is crucial to remember the land on which we stand and recognize the indigenous peoples who have cared for it. In this article, I will walk you through the steps of performing a land acknowledgment on Zoom, incorporating personal touches and sharing my own thoughts throughout the process.
Understanding the Importance of Land Acknowledgement
Before we dive into the technical aspects, it is crucial to recognize why land acknowledgements are significant. Land acknowledgements are a way to honor and show respect to the Indigenous peoples who have lived and continue to live on the land we now occupy. It is an act of recognition that allows us to confront the historical and ongoing oppression faced by Indigenous communities.
Personally, I find land acknowledgements to be a powerful reminder of the interconnectedness of all beings and our responsibility to uphold justice, equity, and sustainability. They serve as a reminder that we are all guests on this land and that we must work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable future.
Steps to Perform a Land Acknowledgement on Zoom
1. Research the Traditional Territory
Start by researching the traditional territory on which you are currently located. Use online resources, such as native-land.ca or local Indigenous organization websites, to find accurate and up-to-date information. Take the time to learn about the history, culture, and language of the Indigenous peoples who call this land their home.
Reflecting on my own experience, I recently discovered that the land I reside on is the traditional territory of the [Name of Indigenous People]. Learning about their vibrant culture and the challenges they face has deepened my understanding and commitment to supporting Indigenous rights.
2. Craft Your Acknowledgement
Once you have gathered the necessary information, it’s time to craft your land acknowledgement. Keep it concise and heartfelt, ensuring you are respectful and inclusive of all Indigenous nations in the area. Here’s an example:
I would like to begin this meeting/event by acknowledging that I reside on the traditional territory of the [Name of Indigenous People]. I pay my respects to their elders past, present, and emerging, and extend that respect to all Indigenous peoples, who continue to protect the land, water, and all living beings. I recognize and honor their enduring connections to this territory.
Feel free to personalize the wording to reflect your own values and intentions. Remember, this is not just a script to recite; it is an opportunity to express your commitment to reconciliation and decolonization.
3. Incorporate the Land Acknowledgement into your Zoom Meeting
Now that you have your land acknowledgement prepared, it’s time to incorporate it into your Zoom meeting. Here are the steps to follow:
- Open the Zoom application on your device and sign in.
- Click on the “Schedule” button to set up a new meeting or select an existing meeting to edit.
- In the “Meeting” tab, scroll down to the “Meeting Options” section.
- In the “Alternative Hosts” field, type in the land acknowledgement or paste it from your clipboard.
- Save the changes and proceed with scheduling or starting your meeting as usual.
I have found that incorporating the land acknowledgement directly into the meeting details ensures that it is visible to all participants, fostering a culture of respect and awareness.
Conclusion
Performing a land acknowledgement on Zoom is a small yet meaningful way to honor the Indigenous peoples whose land we occupy. By researching the traditional territory, crafting a heartfelt acknowledgement, and incorporating it into our virtual meetings, we can contribute to the process of truth-telling, reconciliation, and decolonization.
As I continue to engage in virtual spaces, I am reminded of the power of collective action and the role we all play in creating a more just and inclusive world. Let us carry the spirit of land acknowledgement beyond Zoom and into our everyday lives, striving for genuine relationships and meaningful change.