ELORA – Sensational Elora is apologizing following remarks made by the emcee during this year’s Monster March in Elora on Saturday, October 17th.
In a statement released Monday, October 19th, the organization’s Board of Directors said the emcee was provided with a script that included Sensational Elora’s Land Acknowledgement and recognition of event sponsors, but chose to depart from it.
“He chose to depart from that script, introducing his own commentary on the Land Acknowledgement and sponsor recognition,” the board said.
The board stressed that the remarks do not reflect the organization’s position or values.
“Our Land Acknowledgement reflects our organization’s commitment to recognizing the Indigenous peoples on whose traditional territories we gather and to approaching that recognition with respect and thoughtfulness. We believe that a Land Acknowledgement at our event should be delivered respectfully and in keeping with the statement approved by our organization,” the statement reads.
The organization also emphasized the importance of recognizing the sponsors who help support its work in the community.
“Their contributions are fundamental to our ability to serve the community, and they deserve our sincere appreciation and recognition.”
Sensational Elora said it regrets that the Land Acknowledgement and sponsor recognition were not presented as intended, offering an apology to those who were offended or disappointed.
“We apologize to those who were offended or disappointed, particularly to members of the Indigenous community and to our sponsors who may have felt disrespected.”
The board added that, as a community non-profit, Sensational Elora takes seriously its responsibility to ensure those representing the organization understand and respect its values.
It says it remains committed to creating “welcoming, respectful and inclusive community experiences.”
