The CSLA is creating a Cultural Landscapes Community of Practice (CoP), a network of members with the interest, expertise, and regional knowledge to support our advocacy of cultural landscapes. This initiative continues the work of the former Committee on Cultural Landscapes and Legacy under a more flexible, participation-based model.
Whether your interest lies in heritage conservation, cultural landscape documentation, public advocacy, or community engagement, we welcome members from all areas of practice to bring their unique perspectives and regional knowledge.
Because the CSLA relies on members from across the country to be its eyes on the ground, it will be important that members of the CoP bring forward information about issues as they arise in their own regions. Without that regional input, the CSLA may not be aware of a local threat or opportunity to submit comments.
Why Join?
Support advocacy for cultural landscapes and threatened sites in your region and across the country
- Help the CSLA identify and celebrate landscapes and designations worth recognizing
- Contribute your expertise to letters, submissions, and statements on advocacy issues
- Connect with other members across the country who share an interest in cultural landscapes
What Does It Mean to Be Part of the Community of Practice?
We value your time and are committed to using it effectively. The Cultural Landscapes CoP is designed to minimize unnecessary meetings and maximize impact. As a member, you will be added to a distribution list where members can share information and request support from other members on local issues when they arise. This flexible approach allows you to engage as much or as little as your availability permits on opportunities that matter the most to you.
- These opportunities might include:
- Flagging a threatened heritage site in your region for potential CSLA advocacy support
- Reviewing or providing comments on a draft letter or submission to federal, provincial and/or local governments
- Sharing news of a designation, restoration, or other milestone worth celebrating
- Participating in a local event, workshop, or discussion on behalf of the CSLA
How to Get Involved
Click the link below to register your interest by completing a short survey.
Join the Community of Practice
If you have questions about the Community of Practice, contact the CSLA Manager of Advocacy and Strategic Affairs at advocacy@csla-aapc.ca.
Advocacy Case Story: Billy Bishop Airport Expansion
Toronto area members of the CSLA Community of Practice brought their concerns of the proposed expansion of Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport to the CSLA's attention, giving the association the opportunity to weigh in on the federal public consultation. After the CSLA submitted its letter opposing the expansion and calling for a genuine public consultation process, one of our members didn't stop there. She joined a public rally in Toronto alongside hundreds of other concerned citizens, celebrating the federal government's decision not to support the expansion and continuing to advocate for the Toronto waterfront's protection.
"It was great to be joined by so many Canadians... Chalk one up for democracy this time."
Stories like this show what local champions can accomplish and how the CSLA can support those efforts with a national voice. By participating in the local event, she also had a chance to speak directly with elected officials in attendance about the importance of protecting the site and the role of landscape architects in designing, maintaining and advocating for the landscapes that shape our communities.
