From the Prairies to the UN: Alicia Buckley Reflects on UNPFII

When Alicia Buckley, Program Director at the Aboriginal Friendship Centres of Saskatchewan (AFCS), travelled to the United Nations, she carried with her the voices of Saskatchewan’s urban Indigenous communities. Now back home, she reflects on an experience that left her feeling “profoundly grounded.”

“Sometimes we get so focused on our day-to-day that we forget we are part of a larger ecosystem,” she shared. “Understanding that the world is a big place and that each one of us has a place and a voice in it, is profound.”

At the UN, Alicia was reminded that Indigenous peoples across the globe face shared challenges and draw from deep wells of resilience. She described the experience as a gift. One that offered her new ideas and renewed energy to support the work being done in Saskatchewan’s Friendship Centres.

“Canada is seen as a leader in how we implement UNDRIP,” Alicia said. “I’m proud of the work we do as Friendship Centres to support and advocate for urban Indigenous people, especially as we navigate very unique challenges. Though we still have a long way to go to achieve true equity, we unequivocally say that our impact far exceeds investment.”

On a personal level, the experience brought deep humility and gratitude.

“Not only have I learned so much about how our advocacy makes an impact, I’ve also been humbled by this experience. Indigenous people have worked hard to provide a place of privilege that I will always honour.”

A Call to Action

Looking ahead, Alicia’s call to action is clear: to continue working with all levels of government to ensure UNDRIP is not just acknowledged, but actively adopted and implemented.

“We need to keep sharing our truth — a truth that works toward Reconciliation while healing and strengthening our communities.”