The County of Wellington is situated on multiple Treaties within the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. Historic agreements also include those made with the Haudenosaunee.
We acknowledge this land has and continues to be, inhabited by other nations throughout time such as the Attawandaron, Métis and the Inuit.
We acknowledge we are not the original stewards of these lands but have the responsibility of caring for this land and its people, and to ensure that future generations are able to thrive here.
The County of Wellington remains dedicated to a better understanding of past, present and future as a gesture of commitment to the process of ongoing and meaningful Reconciliation.
- You are encouraged to reflect and understand the Treaty agreements in the places where you live and work
- Nations listed herein: Anishinaabek, Anishinabewaki, Attiwonderonk, Hodenosauneega, Mississauga, Mississaugas of the Credit, Odawa, Petun (Tionontati) and Wendake (Nionwentsïo)
The official use of the County’s Land Acknowledgement is reserved for the Warden’s Inaugural.
What is a Land Acknowledgement and why do we do it?
A Land Acknowledgement is a statement which recognizes the traditional lands of Indigenous peoples prior to colonization. These lands were and continue to be the lands which are home to an enduring and resilient people.
With the release of the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions’ 94 Calls to Action in 2015, many non-Indigenous people across Canada became aware of the importance of this connection to land. This document became the foundation to further Reconciliation between Canadians and Indigenous Nations and further demonstrated the Federal governments’ commitment to renew nation-to-nation relationships based on recognition, rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership. The TRC report also spurred many businesses, organizations, provincial and municipal governments to follow suit as a means to support their local communities.
Providing a Land Acknowledgement gives time for reflection and an opportunity to recognize the rich history of the Indigenous peoples of the area, and treaties. It is an acknowledgement of the past, present and what can be done to improve relations moving forward.
Providing a Land Acknowledgement is a deliberate and conscious act. It should never be performed in haste, or insincerity. It is a good reminder that we are all responsible in nurturing these ongoing relationships.
