| history of the land |
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Long
before the beginning of modern history, First Nations peoples inhabited
the lands adjacent to what is now Canada Olympic Park. These ancestral peoples
were born, educated, and housed on what we call the Paskapoo Slopes. Archeological
records indicate a continuous pattern of habitation for approximately 8,000
years. Generation after generation of proud families derived their sustenance
from these lands. They lived, hunted and prospered from this land that is
now on the western edge of Calgary. |
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With the signing
of Treaty 7 in 1877, the lifestyles of the First Nations peoples came to
an abrupt halt as they were assigned unfamiliar homes on reserves. With
our newfound appreciation of history and heritage, our commitment to preserve
places of true significance, and our skills to transcend limitations, we
have a perfect opportunity to develop these lands with sensitivity to create
a legacy that will serve the Calgary Olympic Development Association, the
First Nations Peoples, the people of Calgary and Canada. |
| a
vision for seven generations |
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The
Paskapoo Slopes Preservation Society sees a different vision than the one
put forward by the Calgary Olympic Development Association. Our society
sees a broader vision that will encompass and enhance the goals of CODA.
At the same time our vision will create a living legacy that will preserve
heritage, promote sporting excellence and provide a wide range of financial
opportunities to provide employment, economic and cultural benefits. |
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With
minimal effort, the CODA Lands can be transformed into an aboriginal peoples’
historic village of global significance. Incorporating educational, archaeological,
and entrepreneurial developments on the lower slopes adjacent to the Trans-Canada
Highway, and reserving the majority of the upper lands as close to original
as possible, this area will become a gem of great tourist potential. CODA’s
current proposal minimizes this magnificent opportunity, only mentioning
historical resources in four brief points |
| altius,
fortius, maximus |
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With
higher purpose, stronger thought, and faster cooperation, the CODA Lands
can be utilized to preserve the natural and culturally significant features
once walked upon by the early inhabitants of this land. If this higher purpose
is achieved in the Area Structural Plan it will improve cultural understanding,
while fostering and achieving the goals of CODA. |
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The
higher purpose is to honour and recognize the ancestral home of local First
Nations peoples who have not received the kind of respect and recognition
deserving of the first inhabitants of these lands. Honouring the First
Nations includes respecting their traditional and cultural values and spiritual
connection with Mother Earth. |
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With
stronger thought, the CODA lands can be protected for all time. At the same
time, they can be enriched to foster a needed awareness of the excellence,
knowledge and skills that our first peoples possessed. With the combined
wisdom of our community, these lands can be utilized in ways that ensure
they are the centerpiece of an enduring legacy. |
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The
fastest way to a successful outcome is through a cooperative approach that
is founded on a basic understanding and agreement on the right direction
for the future. If all parties can agree on a fundamental vision and work
harmoniously to achieving that end, it will make the planning and development
of the CODA Lands a smoother and faster process. |