Winnipeg, MB – The City of Winnipeg is partnering with Indigenous organizations and governments to co-develop a Greenspace Plan and a Biodiversity Policy expected to protect, enhance, and restore our shared greenspaces for future generations.
The Indigenous partners signing on to join the co-development team are:
- Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC)
- Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO)
- Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF)
- Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO)
- Treaty One Nation
- Tunngasugit – Inuit Resource Centre
Co-development is when Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments work together to co-create laws, policies, or plans in areas of common concern. Considered far different than a consultation or engagement-led approach; in co-development, contributions from each participant are incorporated into the planning process, resulting in a collaborative outcome. The outcomes of this work aim to advance reconciliation and align with the City’s Indigenous Accord.
A Request for Proposals is being posted on the City of Winnipeg’s bid opportunities page on MERX today for the creation of a Greenspace and Natural Corridors Plan bylaw and a Biodiversity Policy. Co-development will play an integral role in the co-creation of the bylaw and policies.
The Greenspace Plan and Biodiversity Policy are directed by Council through OurWinnipeg 2045, Complete Communities Direction Strategy 2.0, and the Winnipeg Parks Strategy. This will be the City’s first comprehensive plan to address public and private greenspaces, natural corridors, and biodiversity in Winnipeg.
Quotes
“By integrating Indigenous knowledge and urban planning, we can ensure our greenspaces and natural corridors are preserved and enhanced for generations to come. This collaborative effort not only supports our environmental goals but also strengthens our commitment to reconciliation and respect for the land."
- Mayor Scott Gillingham, City of Winnipeg
“I am pleased that the City reached out to the AMC to co-develop it’s greenspace plan and biodiversity policy. This approach is essential for reconciliation and creating solutions together that recognize First Nations, including their treaty lands within Winnipeg. I look forward to other co-development initiatives with the City of Winnipeg."
- Grand Chief Cathy Merrick, Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs
“On behalf of the Chiefs and citizens of the Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak of northern Manitoba, I am happy that MKO is a partner in the “Co-development of the Greenspace Plan and Biodiversity Policy” with the City of Winnipeg and other partners. A fact on biodiversity is that Indigenous peoples steward approximately 20% of the planet, but this relatively small share contains 80% of the world's remaining biodiversity. The Indigenous people of MKO are proud members of this global demographic and this achievement to preserve biodiversity will continue for the benefit of our future generations.”
- Grand Chief Garrison Settee, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak
“As the Red River Métis, the environment has always been fundamentally important to us, because it’s intertwined with our culture and way of life. We all have a role to play in preserving the environment, from governments to individual citizens, along with the private sector. Greenspace must be a priority for all urban centres across the country, and I encourage our city and our province to continue working hand in hand with us as we undertake many initiatives to combat climate change, including our two tree nurseries under development, which we estimate could produce up to 100 million trees a year. The planet is warning us through climate change, and if we don’t take heed, we will have to face the consequences.”
- President David Chartrand, Manitoba Métis Federation
"As we co-develop the Greenspace Plan and Biodiversity Policy with the City of Winnipeg, we honour the foundational truth that our city stands on the traditional territory of Treaty One First Nations. It is with great pride and responsibility that Treaty One Nations joins this historic collaboration, ensuring that the voices and values of our First Nations communities are not only recognized but woven into the very fabric of the city's governance and bylaws. Together, we are shaping a future where the spirit of the treaties guides us towards a Winnipeg that embraces diversity, sustainability, and mutual respect for all who call this land home."
- Chief Gordon Bluesky, Treaty One spokesperson
"As we embark on a groundbreaking initiative, we are honoured to join the City of Winnipeg in championing the vital cause of biodiversity and Indigenous inclusion. This historic endeavour signifies a significant step forward for Canada, making us proud to be part of this esteemed committee. By embracing and nurturing our diverse ecosystems and honouring the deep-rooted traditions of the Indigenous communities, we are paving the way for a sustainable future. Together, we will create a harmonious balance between nature and culture, fostering a stronger and more inclusive Winnipeg for generations to come."
- Nikki Komaksiutiksak, CEO, Tunngasugit Inc.