“In 2016, the province of Ontario passed legislation declaring the first week of November Treaties Recognition Week. This annual event honours the importance of treaties and helps students and residents of Ontario learn more about treaty rights and relationships. This year, Treaties Recognition Week runs from November 3rd – November 9th.

Treaties are legally binding agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and the federal and provincial governments. They form the basis of the relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Treaties are living documents, and treaty commitments are just as valid today as they ever were.

Much of Canada exists under treaty agreements for the shared use of the land between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Treaties uphold Indigenous rights to land, resources, water, health care, education and much more. These treaties, signed by previous and current governments, include everyone who lives in Canada. Everyone is responsible to uphold treaty rights. We Are All Treaty People.

By learning more about our collective treaty rights and obligations, we can create greater understanding and nurture relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Through education, we can continue to move forward toward truth and reconciliation.

Last year, each school received a Hiawatha Belt and a Two Row Wampum Belt. This year, each school will receive a One Dish, One Spoon Treaty Belt.

Thank you to students, families, staff, and the BHNCDSB Catholic community for your ongoing support of Treaties Recognition Week.”

~Superintendent, Kevin Greco