Architecture has the responsibility of actively working toward designing culturally responsive built environments for Inuit and First Nations people.  Buildings can and must contribute to the empowerment of Canada’s indigenous population.  A culturally responsive built environment raises the never-ending debate of international versus regional architecture. How can consultations be managed to deliver meaningful results?  All aspects of indigenous cultures must be brought to bear, not just traditional shelter, but also oral traditions (stories, legends, knowledge) language, material culture, sacred places, and spirituality.  How can this information and knowledge be given shape? How can it be embodied in a building?

Presented by various experts on behalf of Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC).