Land Acknowledgement
We recognize and deeply appreciate those who have great historic connection to the lands in Guelph and Wellington County, including the Anishinaabe (Ah-nish-nah-bay), Haudenosaunee (Ho-deh-no-show-nee), Tionontati (Tee-oh-nahn-TAH-tee) and Attawandaron (At-ta-won-da-ron) peoples. We also recognize the contributions that Metis, Inuit and other Indigenous peoples have made across Turtle Island.
As settlers, the recognition of the historic importance of Indigenous peoples must also be clearly connected to our collective commitment to Truth and Reconciliation in our communities. We acknowledge the historical oppression and violence Indigenous people have endured and the inequalities many continue to experience.
We accept that it is our responsibility to hold ourselves accountable and commit to taking action to eliminate systemic racism and create a more inclusive and resilient community. This includes recognizing how colonial systems prevent equity-deserving groups from accessing funding and services; building trust, relationships and partnerships within all communitiesand committing to listening, learning and unlearning to make deep systemic change within our sector.
We encourage you to reflect on and learn more of the history of Turtle Island – and acknowledge the unbearable truths that come with that journey. Collectively, we can then use this knowledge to begin the process of reconciliation, build relationships and a better future where the history, heritage, rights and freedoms of all citizens are respected.
