Land Acknowledgement
We recognize that we are on the ancestral lands of the Anishnawbe, Haudenosaunee, and Attawandaron peoples, and we are grateful for the opportunity to come together on this land.
We acknowledge the deep and enduring connection that these Nations have to this land, and we reflect on their history, culture, and contributions. As we gather here, we commit ourselves to ongoing learning about Indigenous practices, traditions, and cultures, and to the continued pursuit of understanding, respect, and reconciliation.
We also wish to highlight the enduring significance of the Two Row Wampum Treaty. This treaty, symbolized by the Two Row Wampum Belt, is a mutual understanding that both sides will live in peace and respect, each pursuing their distinct paths while remaining side by side. It is a reminder of the ongoing commitment we all must make to uphold these values, in the spirit of partnership and mutual understanding.
Finally, we offer our respect to the Elders of Turtle Island (also known as North America), both past and present, and extend this respect to all Indigenous peoples and communities. We honor their resilience, wisdom, and leadership, and we strive to be allies in the work of reconciliation.
This version connects the Two Row Wampum Treaty more directly to the idea of shared responsibility and mutual respect, emphasizing its importance to everyone, and provides a fuller sense of gratitude and commitment to learning about and supporting Indigenous peoples.
Haldimand-Norfolk REACH, Youth Alliance Committee