OXD offices are on land located within the unceded territory of the Coast Salish Peoples—a large language group with several distinct languages and cultures. Coast Salish traditional lands include the American states of Washington and Oregon and extend north to Bute inlet in British Columbia. OXD is on the traditional territories of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish Nation), Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh First Nation), and xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam Indian Band) Peoples.
Recognizing the history of the land we live, work, and play on is part of a broader process that we’re taking towards supporting the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. We support the practices of recognizing and appreciating the land we live on and to help:
- raise awareness of Indigenous cultures, languages and land rights in our work and meetings with clients and staff,
- recognize and learn more about the history of colonialism and the detrimental impacts that racist and discriminatory practices have had, and continue to have, on Indigenous Peoples—and,
- support a work environment that is fair and equitable where we welcome and respect all people and cultures.
We’re grateful to be guests on this inspiring land where we can do creative work and help provide solutions to support our community and international partners. We’re committed to celebrating the talents and contributions of Indigenous Peoples while we strive to continue learning. We commit to participating in and learning from workshops and Indigenous-led training to actively reduce racist and colonial practices that continue to impact Indigenous Peoples and their lands.
We encourage everyone who lives in what is now known as North America to learn about the Peoples who stewarded these lands for millennia.