The Town of Penetanguishene Posts the Official Land Acknowledgment Throughout Municipal Buildings
The Town of Penetanguishene is proud to formally release the Official Land Acknowledgment, passed by Council in January 2023.
Land acknowledgements mark a small and important step in the process of reconciliation and building positive relationships with Indigenous peoples. Members of Staff, Council and community representatives created the land acknowledgment to recognize the traditional territory of Indigenous peoples who live and work on this land from time immemorial.
“Putting together this land acknowledgement involved thinking about what happened in the past and what changes we as a municipality can make going forward” says Jeff Lees, Chief Administrative Officer. “Members of the community will be able to see the large wall plaques when entering all Town Facilities, which will stand as a constant reminder to continue acts of reconciliation in our community moving forward.”
Using a land acknowledgement is a way to recognize the enduring presence and resilience of Indigenous peoples in this area. It also serves as a reminder that we are all accountable for building relationships on the path of truth and reconciliation. The Town of Penetanguishene will read the land acknowledgement at the start of all Council meetings. The acknowledgement is available on the Town’s website and may also be used by the Mayor or designate and staff at the start of a civic celebration or a Town-led event.
The Town of Penetanguishene Official Land Acknowledgement
Penetanguishene respectfully acknowledges that we are on the traditional and Treaty territory of the Anishinabek people and their ancestors, now known as the Williams Treaties First Nations territory. This includes Chippewa Tri-Council comprised of Beausoleil First Nation, Rama First Nation, and the Georgina Island First Nation, Alderville, Curve Lake, Hiawatha and Mississauga’s of Scugog Island First Nation.
Also, once the home of the Huron-Wendat and more recently the historic settlement of the Metis, Penetanguishene is now home to many Indigenous peoples. Penetanguishene is proud of its Indigenous name and more importantly, that for thousands of years it has been and will continue to be an important homeland and gathering place for Indigenous people. We recognize that we are the stewards and caretakers of these lands and waters, and are responsible to ensure that our Mother, the earth, is here for future generations.
For more information about the Town's traditional land acknowledgements, please review the Council report on recognition of traditional lands.
Sarah Marshall
Communications & Technology Coordinator
