Birth of the Pehta Foundation and the Pehta Framework.

Today was a day filled with emotion and pride. After years of dedication and hard work, we celebrated the launch of the Pehta Foundation and the Pehta Framework with two distinct ceremonies: a traditional pipe ceremony in Edmonton and a virtual ceremony accessible worldwide. The Pehta Framework, or the Indigenous Community Benefit Disclosure Framework, is a ground-breaking standardization initiative crafted by Indigenous Communities. It is offered to industries to promote more authentic, credible, and responsible reporting to the communities first and the institutional investment market second.

We were deeply honored by the participation of many of our signatory communities in these events. Our sincere gratitude goes to the elders, whose prayers, wisdom, and guidance have been a beacon of light for us all. We extend special thanks to Chief Kelsey Jacko, Chief Greg Desjarlais, Chief Trevor John, Chief Stan Houle, and the numerous councilors who joined us in person. A heartfelt acknowledgment to Chief Billy Morin for his kind words, and to Joseph Bastien for his enlightening insights on the importance of standardization in the institutional investment market. We also greatly appreciate Chief Sharleen Gale and all others who connected with us online.

This marks the beginning of a significant journey. The Pehta Framework will be available in an Exposure Draft on the pehta.org website in December 2023. We eagerly invite and welcome formal feedback over the coming months. Thank you to everyone involved in this momentous occasion for your invaluable support and participation.