The City of Vancouver says it has become the first municipality in Canada to adopt a formal process for engaging urban Indigenous residents, marking a new step in its reconciliation efforts.

The city says its Urban Indigenous Engagement Framework is designed to guide staff in working with First Nations, Inuit and Métis people living in the city, using culturally relevant and trauma-informed approaches.

Officials say the framework aims to ensure Indigenous perspectives are reflected in planning and decision-making, while creating more consistent and accessible opportunities for participation.

Rachel Wuttunee, the city’s senior manager of urban Indigenous relations, said the framework is intended to build trust and create safer spaces for Indigenous voices.

The framework was developed with input from the Musqueam Indian Band, Squamish Nation and Tsleil-Waututh Nation, along with advisory committees and more than 200 urban Indigenous participants who took part in consultations in 2023 and 2024.

The city says the framework includes guidance for staff before, during and after engagement, embedding Indigenous protocols, introducing evaluation tools and applying culturally informed practices.

It also supports commitments outlined in Vancouver’s 2024–2028 strategy aligned with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

The city says the initiative is part of its broader effort to strengthen relationships with host Nations and urban Indigenous communities while advancing long-term reconciliation goals.