Truth and Reconciliation
Aaniin, Boozhoo, Biindigen, Welcome to the Truth and Reconciliation page!
Information on this page is intended to provide resources to help us learn and support each other by making our workplace welcoming and inclusive.
Let us know if you are interested in topics that are not covered here, by emailing [email protected]
Treaties Recognition Week
Honouring Ontario's Indigenous Agreements
November 3-9, 2024, marks Treaties Recognition Week in Ontario. This important observance honours the historic and present day treaties between Indigenous peoples and the Crown, acknowledging the province's rich and complex history.
This annual event honours the importance of Treaties and helps students and residents of Ontario learn more about Treaty rights and relationships. By learning more about our collective Treaty rights and obligations, we can create greater understanding and nurture relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
Treaties Recognition Week represents one of many steps on Ontario’s journey of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. The week was launched in response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action (PDF) to increase Treaty awareness and provide the public with an important opportunity to learn why treaties matter.
Understanding Treaties
Treaties are legally binding agreements that established relationships, rights, and responsibilities between Indigenous nations and European settlers. Ontario is home to 46 treaties, covering most of the province.
Why Recognition Matters
It is important for all Ontarians to understand the role treaties play in our lives and relationships with each other today as we move forward together to advance reconciliation.
Recognizing treaties: Affirms Indigenous rights and title to lands, promotes mutual understanding and respect, supports reconciliation and healing, and encourages inclusive and equitable communities
Get Involved
Watch videos of Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers highlighting the importance of Treaties, Treaty relationships and Treaty rights in Ontario. Use the videos to promote learning about Treaties in your organization or classroom.
Maurice Switzer delivers presentations on Treaty recognition as a key element of the reconciliation process and talks about issues related to the Williams Treaties, Maurice Switzer on reconciliation and treaty recognition
Resources
Truth and Reconciliation at the City of Oshawa
On June 20, 2022 Oshawa City Council recognized and acknowledged the T.R.C.’s Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (U.N.D.R.I.P.). Council also committed to meaningful reconciliation with Indigenous communities, using these two documents as the framework for the City’s Reconciliation efforts.
This report provides more details about Council’s acknowledgement of the Calls to Action and U.N.D.R.I.P.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The City has proclaimed September 30 as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation in Oshawa. This day is an opportunity for Oshawa residents to recognize and commemorate the legacy of residential schools.
The establishment of a National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is in response to the 80th call to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (T.R.C.) which calls for a day to "honour survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure that public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process."
| 2024 Survivor Flag Raising Ceremony and Commemorations |
| Orange Ribbon Memorials: September 3 to October 7.
There are six locations in Oshawa for residents to bring and tie orange ribbon as a sign of respect to these Indigenous children and their families, and to support healing in Indigenous Communities across Canada. Locations:
Please join us as we gather at Alexandra Park, in partnership with Lakeridge Health, as we host Jake Charles and his Big Drum as a way to honour the upcoming National Day for Truth and Reconciliation through traditional dance, music and teachings.
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Honouring the Children – Orange Ribbon Memorials
In partnership with Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle, the City of Oshawa invited community members to commemorate the children lost to residential schools and support healing in Indigenous communities by tying orange ribbons at one of the five memorials across the city.
Starting in 2021, in partnership with Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle, the City of Oshawa invited community members to commemorate the children lost to residential schools and support healing in Indigenous communities by tying orange ribbons at one of the six memorials across the City of Oshawa.
Locations:
- Giiwedinong (North Location): Columbus Community Centre 3265 Simcoe St N.
- Waabanong (East Location): Delpark Homes Centre 1661 Harmony Rd. N.
- Zhaawanong (South Location): Lakeview Park 55 Lakeview Park Ave.
- Ningaabii'anong (West Location): Civic Recreation Complex 99 Thornton Rd. S.
- Central location: Oshawa City Hall 50 Centre St. S.
- Community Location: Bawaajigewin Aboriginal Community Circle 863 Glen St.
National Indigenous Languages Day
National Indigenous Languages Day is annually held on March 31, and it is a day to celebrate and honour Indigenous languages in Canada. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving and revitalizing Indigenous languages, which due to colonization and cultural assimilation, have been been put at risk of extinction. Despite this, along with the adverse effects of the Residential School system, many Indigenous languages continue to thrive today.
The day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the richness and diversity of Indigenous languages and the need to protect them for future generations.
| Language of the local Territory |
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Anishinaabemowin (also called Ojibwemowin, and the Ojibwe/Ojibwe language) is an Indigenous language, generally spanning from Manitoba to Québec, with a strong concentration around the Great Lakes. Elders share that the term Anishinaabemowin acknowledges the creation story of the Ojibwe people: “Anishinaabe” means “the spirit that is lowered down from above,” “-mo” refers to expression through speech and “-win” refers to the life energy within, used to do so. Linguists also explain that “-win” is a nominalizer that turns the verb Anishinaabemo (“he/she is speaking the Anishinaabe language”) into a noun. According to the 2021 Census, 25,440 people are listed as speaking Ojibwe languages. |
| Did you know? |
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| Educational Resources & Recommended Reads |
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Did you know?
Indigenous peoples played a significant role in Canada's war efforts, particularly during:
- World War I: Over 4,000 Indigenous soldiers served, despite facing discrimination and inequality. They earned 50 Battle Honours and 200 decorations for bravery.
- World War II: Approximately 3,000 Indigenous soldiers served, including Code Talkers who used their languages to transmit secret messages.
- Korean War: Indigenous soldiers continued to serve with distinction.
Indigenous contributions included:
- Bravery in battle
- Code-breaking and communication
- Cultural expertise (e.g., tracking, survival skills)
- Leadership and diplomacy
Notable Indigenous veterans include:
- Sergeant Tommy Prince (Devil's Brigade)
- Lt. Col. William Gray (D-Day veteran)
- Cpl. Francis Pegahmagabow (WWI sniper)
Their sacrifices and achievements paved the way for future generations.
To learn more about the influence contribution of Indigenous peoples throughout visit the Canadian Government website on Indigenous Veterans
International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples
The International Day of the World's Indigenous People is marked annually on August 9. It is a day to raise awareness and protect the rights of the world's Indigenous population.
The day serves as a reminder to preserve and celebrate the rich culture, heritage, traditions, languages, and wisdom that Indigenous people bring to the world. As well it is an opportunity to foster solidarity among Indigenous people and raise awareness for the violations of Indigenous rights.
| When is International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024? |
The International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024 takes place on Wednesday, August 9th. This is an annual event that is celebrated on the same day each year.
What is the History of International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples?The history of the International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples began when the U.N. Working Group on Indigenous Populations held its first meeting to address the rights and create awareness of the needs of Indigenous peoples around the world. This meeting was held in Geneva in 1982. In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly then decided on a resolution to commemorate the International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples in December 1994. On this day, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (U.N.E.S.C.O.) celebrates the occasion by “sharing information on projects and activities that are relevant to the annual theme.” UNESCO also continues to address the challenges Indigenous peoples face and the prominent role they play in society’s diverse cultural systems. |
| How to Celebrate International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024: |
There are plenty of ways to create awareness and do your part to help. Here are a few Twinkl ideas to celebrate International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024:
Learn more about Indigenous cultures and communitiesA great place to start learning about the local Indigenous peoples is by visiting each individual community's website. They will often share a plethora of resources and information regarding their individual nation here. Also look into treaty territories and their perspective educational channels and podcasts on social media. Support Indigenous peoples and businessesThere are quite a few Indigenous owned businesses to explore, including beauty products, jewelry, food, and plenty more. Supporting Indigenous businesses not only boosts their economy but helps you learn more about their respective cultures as well. Donate or volunteer at Indigenous organizationsThere is nothing more meaningful than devoting your time, skills, and resources to a worthy cause. Helping spread the word about Indigenous peoples and the daily issues they face is the perfect way to commemorate the International Day of The World’s Indigenous Peoples 2024. |
| Ways to Get Involved |
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The International Day of the World's Indigenous People is an opportunity for everyone to learn, support, and stand in solidarity with Indigenous communities. By getting involved, you can help promote a world that respects and celebrates the diversity and contributions of Indigenous Nations. Learn and have conversations:Read books and articles. Learn the true history culture and current issues Indigenous peoples are facing. Recommended Reads: Watch documentaries or true story movies that include Indigenous voices such as:
Support Indigenous Initiatives, Artists and BusinessesIndigenous Book Store: Arts and Gift Stores: Indigenous food sovereignty: Donate time and resources to initiatives such as: |
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Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two-Spirit, and Gender Diverse Individuals (M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+) Resource Section
Welcome to the M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+ Section. Below you will find great resources to help learn more, build on your understanding of this current crisis within Canada and find ways to get involved.
The images used for the posters around City Hall were taken from CBC Missing and Murdered: The Unsolved Cases of Indigenous Women and Girls
| History of M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+ |
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The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, Two Spirit and Gender Diverse Individuals (M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+) was launched in 2016 to examine and report on systemic causes of all forms of violence against Indigenous individuals, particularly women and girls who face disproportionately high levels of violence when compared to their non-Indigenous counterparts. This inquiry is a direct response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Call to Action #41, "We call upon the federal government, in consultation with Aboriginal organizations, to appoint a public inquiry into the causes of, and remedies for, the disproportionate victimization of Aboriginal women and girls." The goal of the Inquiry was to investigate and report on the systemic causes of all forms of violence against Indigenous women and girls and to examine the underlying social, economic, cultural, institutional and historical causes that contribute to the ongoing violence and particular vulnerabilities. Through the Inquiry into M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+ there were 4 key areas addressed where systemic changes need to be implemented:
To learn more about these areas, please read the inquiry or watch this brief Video Overview to Contextualize the Inquiry into M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+ |
| Red Dress Installations |
City Hall - 50 Centre St. S.In honour of M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+, the City of Oshawa is looking to draw attention to this crisis through a red dress art installation at City Hall. Inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black, 13 dresses now line the pathway from King St. W. and Centre St. S. to City Hall, and 13 more inside on the main floor of the building. Why 13 Dresses?The groupings of 13 represent the Thirteen Moons followed by the Anishinaabe calendar teachings that may vary slightly among different communities; essentially each Moon reflects a teaching that emphasize the importance of maintaining balance, respect, and harmony in relationships with oneself, others, and the environment. Keewatinong or North DirectionDelpark Homes Recreation Centre - 1661 Harmony Rd N Waabinong or East DirectionDonevan Recreation Centre - 171 Harmony Rd S, Oshawa Zhawanong or South DirectionSouth Oshawa Community Centre - 1455 Cedar St. Ningabii'anong or West DirectionCivic Recreation Complex - 99 Thornton Rd S |
| Purpose of the National Day of Awareness for M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+ |
Why do we have a day?May 5 has been designated as a day to pay respect to the victims, raise awareness of the crisis and call on governments to take action to address the racialized and gendered violence inflicted on Indigenous peoples in Canada. Why Red Dresses?Red Dress Day was inspired by Métis artist Jaime Black’s REDress Project installation, in which she hung empty, red dresses to represent the missing and murdered Indigenous women. Red dresses have become symbolic of the crisis as a result of her installation. Current Concerns |
| Moose Hide Campaign |
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The Moose Hide Campaign is a nationwide movement of Indigenous and non-Indigenous Canadians from First Nations, local communities, governments, schools, post-secondary institutions, and many other organizations that are committed to taking action to end violence towards women and children. The official Moose Hide Campaign Day is May 16.
The cornerstone of the Campaign is the moose hide pin. Wearing a moose hide pin signifies the wearer’s commitment to honour, respect and protect the women and children in their life and speak out against gender-based and domestic violence.
In addition to being a symbol against gender-based and domestic violence, moose hide is also a symbol of undoing the effects of Residential Schools.
Throughout the month of May, pins will be available at the service counters at City Hall, Civic Recreation Complex, Delpark Homes Centre, Donevan Recreation Complex and South Oshawa Community Centre. Community members are encouraged to visit a facility to pick up a pin and wear the pin in May and beyond. |
| Women's Memorial March and the Day to Honour M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+ |
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The Women’s Memorial March (W.M.M) is held every year on 14 February, Valentine’s Day, in cities across Turtle Island (Canada and the United States). The W.M.M started in 1992 in Vancouver, B.C, following the murder of Indigenous woman Cheryl Ann Joe. The first Women’s Memorial March began as a small memorial for Joe, but grew to become an annual march to honour all missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. The Vancouver march draws thousands of people, while women’s memorial marches have spread to more than 20 cities across Turtle Island (Canada and the United States). The Day to Honour Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls was created in response to the Women’s Memorial March, first held in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside in 1992. Valentine’s Day has been chosen as a day to hold space and memorialize Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. |
| Learn more about M.M.I.W.G.2.S.+ |
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The Final Report of the National Inquiry led to the National Action Plan being developed to help support all levels of government and communities in their steps to reduce the dangers Indigenous Peoples face within Canada.
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| Crisis Support Resources |
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If you or someone you know is affected by gender-based violence, you can find support lines in your region:
Women and Gender Equality Canada's Gender-Based Violence Knowledge Centre maintains a searchable database of information and resources on gender-based violence:
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| Ways to be an Active Ally |
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Land Acknowledgement
The City of Oshawa is situated on lands and waters within the Williams Treaties Territory, home to seven First Nation communities of the Michi Saagiig and Chippewa Anishinaabeg, who have cared for and maintained these lands from time immemorial and continue to do so to present day.
To access the City of Oshawa’s full version Land Acknowledgement and meaning of the word “Oshawa” visit Oshawa.ca/LandAcknowledgement.