The Canadian Dental Association recognizes that reconciliation is an ongoing process that requires listening, learning, reflection, and action. As a national organization, CDA is committed to understanding its role and responsibilities in advancing reconciliation with First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples, and to strengthening its internal practices in ways that support respect, inclusion, and accountability.
CDA’s approach to reconciliation focuses on the organization itself, including how we work, how we engage, and how we can continue to improve. We recognize the broader context of oral health inequities experienced by Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
As part of this commitment, CDA recognizes the importance of meaningful land acknowledgments as a foundation for understanding Indigenous histories, relationships to land, and the ongoing impacts of colonization. Land acknowledgements are not an end in themselves, but a starting point for learning and action.
To support this work, CDA developed a Land Acknowledgement Toolkit to help dental organizations, leaders, and event organizers approach land acknowledgements thoughtfully and responsibly. The toolkit encourages moving beyond scripted statements toward deeper understanding of local Indigenous Nations, treaties, and contexts.
The toolkit provides practical guidance on:
Understanding the purpose and intent of land acknowledgements
Researching local Indigenous histories and treaties
Using respectful, accurate language
Connecting acknowledgement to reflection and action
Access the CDA Land Acknowledgement Toolkit (PDF)
Building on this foundation, CDA has developed a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) that reflects the organization’s ongoing learning and self-assessment. The plan outlines areas where CDA can strengthen its practices, relationships, and decision-making, with a focus on capacity-building, awareness, and continuous improvement within the organization.
Rather than viewing reconciliation as a fixed destination, CDA understands it as a long-term commitment. The Action Plan helps guide internal conversations, identify opportunities for growth, and ensure that reconciliation remains an active and evolving part of CDA’s work.
CDA remains committed to transparency, learning from Indigenous voices, and taking thoughtful steps forward. Meaningful progress requires time, humility, and sustained effort.
