Be specific & accurate. Confirm the local Nation(s) and spellings (including diacritics) before you speak or publish.
Keep it relevant. Link the acknowledgement to why you’re gathered and actions your group is taking.
Use current terms. Prefer Indigenous, First Nations, Inuit, Métis; avoid outdated or generic phrases.
Center respect, not performance. Avoid long lists you haven’t verified.

When unsure, consult local Nation websites, Indigenous governance offices, or your municipality’s guidance.

Live/Work context:
“We acknowledge that we live and work on the traditional territory of the [Nation(s)]. We are grateful for their stewardship of these lands and waters.”
Event context:
“We acknowledge we are gathered on the [unceded/Treaty X] territory of the [Nation(s)]. Today we commit to [action: learning, partnerships, policy changes, donations].”
Email/footers (keep short):
“Based in the territory of [Nation(s)]. Respect to Elders past and present.”

Use both names when helpful: “Vancouver (xʷməθkʷəy̓əm, Sḵwx̱wú7mesh, səl̓ilwətaɁɬ territories).”
Keep diacritics (’ 7 ə x̱ etc.) when provided by the Nation.
Say the Nation name as they do. If presenting, practice pronunciation.

Meeting open: Before we start, we acknowledge we’re on the traditional territory of [Nation] and we’re supporting [local initiative].
Program page: Territory acknowledgement with links to local Nations and our commitments.
Email line: Working from the territory of [Nation(s)].

Many cities publish local-territory guidance; Nations’ own sites are authoritative for names and spelling.
In parts of Canada, lands are unceded; elsewhere, Treaty territories apply—don’t guess.
A short, sincere acknowledgement with follow-through is better than a long, generic one.

Short opener: “We acknowledge the [Nation(s)] who have cared for this land. We’re learning and committing to [action].”
Ask for guidance: “Could you advise on the correct Nation names and spellings for this area?”
Practice name: “Can you help me pronounce [Nation/Place] correctly?”