RECONCILIATION: MOVING FORWARD TOGETHER - SUPPORTING RECONCILIATION
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Adapting to Cultural Needs We heard that BC Housing’s design standards and requirements are too rigid to meet Indigenous cultural and community needs. Some respondents have experienced pushback from BC Housing when they requested design choices that were more culturally appropriate for their communities. They explained that BC Housing denied their request for more community amenity spaces, larger unit sizes and suitable appliances for gathering because those design choices were viewed as “unnecessary” or “too expensive.”
Why This Is Important The right to cultural identity is an
important theme within UNDRIP. Article 8 protects Indigenous cultural identity by declaring that Indigenous peoples have the right to not be subjected to forced assimilation or destruction of their cultures. Indigenous Nations, communities, and organizations have unique housing needs and interests based on their diverse histories, cultures, and traditions. Adopting a decolonized approach within BC Housing means considering services and programs as investments in and support for Indigenous housing management and control. It is important that programs can adapt to and support these diverse needs.
“It always comes down to guidelines, square feet, number of bedrooms, and being told, “You don’t need that much
amenity space.” Yes, we do. – Indigenous Housing Provider
“BC Housing needs to understand the values of First Nations people. What are the values of First Nations people? Family, coming together, living together, culture, food, gathering, children, Elders, taking care of each other. – Indigenous Nation
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