Introduction

The purpose of this document is to establish a Traditional Code of Conduct and Ethics that will apply to all Parties associated with the Keepers of the Water Society by establishing standards to guide the ethical conduct of those who are involved in the organization. These standards are designed to help build a healthy environment within which Keepers of the Water can carry out its work. Much of what is contained in this Traditional Code serves to identify and promote certain positive behaviours and values.

Ours is a holistic approach. Our goal is to help create, reinforce, and sustain conditions conducive to protecting our traditional lands and waters for the next seven generations.

By making strategic investments of the resources entrusted to us, and by contributing to water protection, good water governance and traditional ecological knowledge, we can support the full participation of Indigenous people, including Métis, Inuit and First Nations, in effective environmental stewardship. We also work to engage Canadians in this process by encouraging them to walk with us on the path of reconciliation.

Agreeing to join in the work of the Keepers of the Water Society is an important decision. Your willingness to support the organization with a shared vision of protecting our lands and water for the next seven generations, is respected and appreciated.

CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS

We agree that

We have an obligation to conduct ourselves, at all times, in a manner that does not bring ourselves or Keepers of the Water into disregard or disrespect.

We have an obligation to abide by this Traditional Code of Conduct and Ethics.

We have an obligation to protect our waters, land, air, and wildlife.

We have an obligation to respect and care for our bodies, minds, and spirits.

We have an obligation to respect basic human rights.

In addition, the nature of the work of the Keepers of the Water Society

Each morning upon rising, and each evening before sleeping, give thanks for the life within you and for all life, for good things the Creator has given you and others.

Treat every person, from the tiniest child to the oldest Elder, with respect at all times. Special respect should be given to Elders, parents, teachers and community leaders.

Commit to upholding our Treaty and Indigenous rights to land and water.

As general rules of conduct

We will practice active listening.

We will be compassionate and understanding.

We will not practice any adverse discrimination against anyone in any way.

We will treat each other with respect, courtesy, fairness and good faith.

We commit ourselves to the positive interchange of skills and knowledge.

We commit ourselves to assisting and supporting colleagues.

We will honour all commitments made.

We will not exploit relationships with colleagues for personal gain or the personal gain of friends and relatives.

We will respect confidences shared in working relationships and activities and refuse to participate in gossiping of any kind.

We promise to be honest in describing our professional skills, abilities, and background.

We commit to regular self-evaluation of our strengths, limitations, biases, or levels of effectiveness, and to strive for self-improvement.

We will ensure that we do not force our personal beliefs or values on others to influence an outcome.

Recognizing that we are role models, we will strive to uphold a healthy, positive and professional image by maintaining a high standard of behavior.