Treaties Recognition Week is an opportunity for all Ontarians to gain a better understanding of treaties and treaty relationships, and how they have shaped the province. Treaties have played an integral part in the history and heritage of Ontario.
Treaties Recognition Week 2019 (November 4-8) began with an Opening Ceremony at Sioux North High School in Sioux Lookout. Local dignitaries and leaders joined the staff and students of Sioux North High School and Sioux Mountain Public School in kicking off the week with drumming, speeches and a feast, followed by traditional activities in both schools.
In addition to the numerous lessons and activities taking place in our schools throughout the week, students and staff also participated in Living Library presentations. Supported by the Ministry of Indigenous Affairs and Indigenous partners, Living Library presentations provide an opportunity for Indigenous speakers to share their lived experiences and knowledge about treaties in general, local treaties and the treaty relationship to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. We wish to thank Elders Robert Greene and Don Jones for sharing their knowledge with our students and staff.
Treaties Recognition Week ended with a closing ceremony at Evergreen Public School in Kenora. We were honoured to welcome Ogichidaa (Grand Chief) Francis Kavanaugh of Grand Council Treaty 3, Deputy Grand Chief Derek Fox of Nishnawbe Aski-Nation, Minister of Energy, Northern Development and Mines and Minister of Indigenous Affairs Greg Rickford and other delegates to the event. See the video on Treaties Recognition Week events in our schools below.
The work of our Board to recognize Treaties Recognition Week was featured by the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, click here for more information.
