Timeline: October 2023 – July 2024

Project Description:
Many Chief Consulting Ltd. was contracted to lead Indigenous engagement efforts to inform the incorporation of cultural design elements into the new Calgary Event Centre. In partnership with the Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation and the Dialog design team, MCC Ltd. engaged with eight local Indigenous Nations—Siksika, Piikani, Kainai, the Stoney Nakoda Nations (Bearspaw, Chiniki, and Wesley), Tsuut’ina, the Métis Nation of Alberta Region 3—and Calgary's urban Indigenous community.

The engagement process was guided by the City of Calgary’s Indigenous Policy Framework, ensuring alignment with recognized consultation practices and prioritizing the inclusion of design elements representative of the region’s Indigenous peoples.

Key Project Tasks:

• Engagement Planning: Developed a multi-stage Indigenous engagement plan to facilitate discussions around cultural design components.

• Advisory Group Development: Supported the formation of an Indigenous advisory group of knowledge keepers and Elders to guide design opportunities.

• Stakeholder Consultation: Conducted engagement sessions with Indigenous stakeholders to gather insights and feedback on cultural elements for inclusion in the building design.

Outcomes:

• Achieved approval of the Indigenous engagement strategy from project partners, including the City of Calgary and Calgary Sports and Entertainment Corporation.

• Facilitated four successful engagement sessions with Indigenous Nations and the urban Indigenous community to support the design process.

• Provided guidance to the Project Design Team, resulting in the thoughtful integration of Indigenous cultural elements into the Calgary Event Centre’s design.

This project highlights MCC Ltd.’s commitment to fostering meaningful collaboration and ensuring Indigenous representation in urban development initiatives.