TOWNSHIP OF ESQUIMALT STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 8, 2024 Report No. ADM-24-014
TO: Council
FROM: Vicki Gannon, Director of Human Resources and Community Relations
SUBJECT: Flying Esquimalt Nation's and Songhees Nation's Flags Permanently at Municipal Hall
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
That Council review the information as outlined in Staff Report ADM-24-014, and provide staff with direction to formally communicate with Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation seeking input and direction to permanently display the Esquimalt Nation's flag and Songhees Nation's flags at Municipal Hall.
Body
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:
Mayor Desjardins has had informal conversations with Chief Thomas and Chief Sam who have stated that Esquimalt Nation and Songhees Nation are interested in permanently flying the First Nations' flags at Municipal Hall, and further that there is interest in a ceremonial unveiling of the flags.
The flying of the two Nations' flags, alongside the Township flag is a reminder that the Township of Esquimalt is situated on the traditional lands of the Songhees and Esquimalt People, and demonstrates the Township's commitment to take further steps to visibly honour and respect these Nations. Having the three flags flying alongside one another also demonstrates the Township's commitment to ongoing reconciliation and collaboration with the two Nations.
Once Council provide staff with direction, formal communication will be sent to Esquimalt and Songhees Nations requesting their input and approval regarding flag installation, and a ceremonial unveiling.
BACKGROUND:
At the Township, flags are currently flown as follows, noting that all flags are lowered to half-mast by Public Works and Parks staff when requested:
* Municipal Hall: There is a flagpole with a cross-bar at the front of Municipal Hall. The Canadian Flag flies highest in the middle, in the position of priority, and the Provincial and Esquimalt flags fly on the lower cross-bar. Flag...
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