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Statement of Land Acknowledgment

Land acknowledgments are one example of an act of reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. While a land acknowledgment is but one small gesture, it is an important decolonizing practice that promotes indigenous visibility and is a reminder that we are on settled indigenous land. To recognize the land, is an expression of gratitude and appreciation to those whose territory we reside on, and a way of honoring the Indigenous people who have been living and working on the land from time immemorial. Ontario is home to 133 First Nation communities and is covered by 46 treaties and other agreements, such as A Dish with One Spoon, to peaceably share and care for the land and its resources. As public servants we recognize the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action. Please click this link to learn more about where you live and work.

Statement of African Ancestral Acknowledgment

We acknowledge the many people of African descent who are not settlers, but whose ancestors were forcibly displaced as part of the transatlantic slave trade. We recognize the ancestors of the past who lived, struggled and died to enable their descendants to survive and sustain themselves, their families and communities. Ontario has not only a proud history of providing refuge for escaped enslaved people through the Underground Railroad but also a tragic history of supporting the systems that have oppressed African people. We also recognize the UN Declaration of the International Decade for People of African Descent, specifically the pillars of recognition, justice and development. It is the responsibility of all peoples and all orders of government to contribute to the ongoing, collaborative work to eradicate the impact of colonialism, and to provide opportunities for people to be free from exploitation.