Public encouraged to learn more about treaties

By: Carl Clutchey, Local Journalism Initiative ReporterSource: The Chronicle-Journal

More than 40 treaties continue to “shape the relationship” between Ontario’s Indigenous population and the rest of the province, Indigenous Affairs Minister Greg Rickford noted on Monday.

Rickford (Kenora-Rainy River) released a statement during the start of the 10th annual Treaties Recognition Week, which occurs in the first week of this month.

“I encourage everyone to take time to learn about the treaties that cover the land where you live, work or study . . . deepening our understanding of these commitments,” Rickford said in a news release.

To mark the 10th anniversary, Anishinabek Nation released a new book — This is My Treaty — for preschool and kindergarten children.

The book, created by Anishinabek educator Kelly Crawford, serves “as a platform to discuss concepts of treaties,” Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Linda Debassige said in a separate news release.

“Students at this age can clearly make connections to these concepts, as they are fundamental to their learning.”

“We hope that our non-Indigenous counterparts will learn about our collective treaty rights and obligations to create greater understanding to build a stronger relationship,” Debassige added.

Anishinabek Nation represents 39 Ontario First Nations and 70,000 Indigenous people.