(Toronto, Ontario, November 1, 2021) Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare issued the following statement marking the sixth annual Treaties Recognition Week and encouraging all to participate in one of the many activities to learn about the importance of treaties, treaty relationships, and First Nations’ inherent rights in Ontario:

“Treaties Recognition Week is an opportunity for all to learn about Treaties and the sacred agreements made between First Nations and the Crown, and to honour our true shared history,” said Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare. “Introduced in 2016, Treaties Recognition Week was created to honour the importance of treaties and help Ontarians learn more about treaty rights, responsibilities, and obligations that we all share.”

“It is important to understand that all Ontario exists under treaty agreements and that, among other things, outline how land and natural resources ought to be shared. As per international legal standards, treaties signed between First Nations and the Crown are living documents that remain relevant and constitutionally significant to this day.

We are all Treaty people and, as Treaty partners, it is imperative that we provide the next generation with the tools and knowledge to honour our shared history and ongoing responsibility for mutual understanding. I encourage all to attend one of the many events happening this week to reflect on and honour our shared history, as well as learn about the cultures, contributions and perspectives of First Nations in Ontario.”

Ontario Regional Chief Glen Hare

“Treaties Recognition Week is an important opportunity for all Ontarians to deepen their understanding around treaties and how they have shaped, and continue to shape our province. I join Ontario Regional Chief Hare in urging everyone to take part in events and to make use of the many online resources available to learn more about treaty rights, treaty relationships and their relevance today.”

Greg Rickford, Minister of Indigenous Affairs

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The Chiefs of Ontario supports all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @ChiefsOfOntario.

Media inquiries please contact:

Genna Benson
Communications and Public Affairs Manager
Policy and Communications Sector
Chiefs of Ontario
Telephone: 416-523-4020
Email: Genna.Benson@coo.org