WC141 MarApr 2025 - Magazine - Page 13
Representatives from the inaugural National Indigenous Water Operator Committee met
with the Minister of Indigenous Services Canada in Ottawa.
before we celebrate water, we must first honour
the individuals who ensure its safety and
availability.
The day also highlights the systemic
inequities faced by operators working under
challenging conditions, often in isolation.
With minimal resources, operators are the
backbone of Indigenous water systems, yet
their contributions have been historically
overlooked. NIWOD provides an opportunity to rectify this by
celebrating their dedication, sharing their stories, and fostering
understanding among policymakers and the public.
A case for recognition
The National Indigenous Water Operator Committee represents
a watershed moment in Canadian water management. By uniting
operators from diverse communities across the country, this group
demonstrates the power of collaboration and shared experience.
Their efforts have transformed longstanding frustrations into
actionable data, creating a compelling case for change.
The proposed federal recognition of NIWOD serves several key
purposes:
1. Honouring Operators: Celebrating their tireless work in providing
clean, safe drinking water.
2. Raising Awareness: Highlighting the unique challenges faced by
WAT E R C A N A D A . N E T
water operators in Indigenous communities.
3. Bridging Knowledge Systems: Emphasizing the value of
integrating traditional Indigenous water stewardship with
modern treatment techniques.
4. Inspiring Future Generations: Showcasing the importance of
water operators’ work to encourage youth to pursue careers in
the field.
5. Fostering Dialogue: Creating a platform for direct engagement
between operators and policymakers.
A path forward
The recognition of NIWOD as a commemorative day is not just
about a day on the calendar—it represents a larger shift toward
inclusivity, respect, and collaboration in Canada’s approach to
water management. Operators have taken their rightful place
at the decision-making table, ensuring their expertise informs
policies that impact their communities.
This past year’s gathering on Parliament Hill is a testament
to their resilience and determination. By combining traditional
practices with modern methods, leveraging data, and
demanding accountability, operators are driving meaningful
change. As NIWOD continues to grow, it will serve as both
a celebration of their contributions and a call to action for
governments and communities alike to invest in the people who
ensure clean water flows to every tap.
WATER C AN ADA • M ARCH/APRIL 2025
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