Happy Canada Day Kina Goyaa (everyone)
As many families and communities across the country finalize their plans for Canada Day celebrations this year, we would like to recognize and celebrate the beautiful Indigenous lands and waters which have been shared and which continue to be part of Turtle Island. We would also like to celebrate the important efforts that so many are making towards first understanding the difficult truths of Canada’s colonial relationship with Indigenous people both past and present, and in seeking concrete actions of reconciliation and renewal.
All of us are in a treaty relationship of peace, friendship, and respect and for many of us Canada Day is a time to honour and celebrate our treaties and our freedoms in the land that we share.
As we celebrate Canada Day, First Nations are also reflecting on some of the positive relationships and negotiations governments and Indigenous people recently shared and agreed upon. On June 17, 2023, the federal and provincial government along with the Robinson-Huron Treaty Litigation Fund had a press conference and agreed to a 10 billion dollar settlement. The settlement is evidence that historical treaties have a place in modern Canada and Laurentian University was thrilled to host this historical event in the R.D. Parker Atrium. Moving forward our land acknowledgement becomes even more meaningful as it includes the 1850 Robinson- Huron Treaty and the recent agreement.
Happy Canada Day- Gichinendami Kinada Giizhigak.