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First Nations

Explanatory Note:  The policies on this page reference the City of Kawartha Lakes' commitment to advancing reconciliation with Aboriginal peoples in Canada. An important aspect of our commitment to genuine reconciliation is ensuring accuracy in recognizing Indigenous people with Aboriginal rights and/or interests in our community. In this context, it is vital to clarify that the term "First Nations" as used in these policies does not include the group who refer to themselves as "Kawartha Lakes First Nation" or the "Assembly of Kawartha First Nation".  The City of Kawartha Lakes does not acknowledge this group as a First Nation or as an Aboriginal people. They have not been recognized as a First Nation by the federal government, nor has this group been identified as a collective whose identity as Aboriginal people and Constitutional rights-holders have been affirmed by the courts.  This group also lacks any connection to a historical Indigenous community in Kawartha Lakes. Acknowledging entities that falsely claim Indigenous status undermines the process of reconciliation and does a disservice to legitimate rights holders. City of Kawartha Lakes is actively involved in ongoing consultations and engagement with Aboriginal and treaty right holders in the region, including the Williams Treaties First Nations. For reference, view a list of Ontario-based First Nations federally recognized.

Public Notice issued by the Williams Treaties First Nations - April 2024, download PDF

First Nations Land Acknowledgement

The following Land Acknowledgement was adopted by Council in June 2022 after consultation with First Nations communities.

The City of Kawartha Lakes respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Mississauga lands and the traditional territory covered by the Williams Treaties.

We are grateful for the opportunity to work here and we thank all the generations of people who have taken care of this land - for thousands of years. We recognize and deeply appreciate their historic connection to this place. We also recognize the contributions of Métis, Inuit, and other Indigenous peoples, both in shaping and strengthening this community and country as a whole. This recognition is connected to our collective commitment to make the promise and the challenge of Truth and Reconciliation real in our community.

When, How and by Whom the Acknowledgment will be Made

A land acknowledgment will be made at each of the following events by the City:

By Council:

  1. At the initial swearing-in ceremony for each new 4-year term of Council.
  2. Annually, at the meeting of Council immediately preceding National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21).

Planning Advisory Committee:

  1. At the initial swearing-in ceremony for each new 4-year term of Planning Advisory Committee.
  2. Annually, at the meeting of Council immediately preceding National Indigenous Peoples Day (June 21).

ResourcesSign with "Every Child Matters"

For more information on Truth and Reconciliation, please visit: 

Truth and Reconciliation Community Bobcaygeon

National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

Council Policies

 

 

 

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