Durham Region honours National Indigenous Peoples Day

Whitby, Ontario – The following statement is being issued on behalf of John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer for The Regional Municipality of Durham:

“Today (June 21) is National Indigenous Peoples Day—an opportunity to learn about, honour and celebrate the distinct heritage, cultural practices, traditions, languages and contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities.

We are eternally grateful for the opportunity to operate on the traditional and treaty territories of the Nations covered under the Williams Treaties, and acknowledge the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation; Alderville First Nation; Hiawatha First Nation; Curve Lake First Nation; and the Chippewa Nations of Georgina Island, Beausoleil and Rama, for their continued guardianship of this land.

We honour, recognize and respect these Nations and Indigenous Peoples as the traditional stewards of the lands and waters on which we have the privilege to operate.

We know there is still work to be done. Last year, we took another step on the path to reconciliation by installing a permanent orange crosswalk at our Regional Headquarters. In Durham Region, we are committed to reconciliation; to actively work toward building and renewing relationships with Indigenous communities; and to addressing past inequities and closing the gaps that still exist today.

I encourage everyone to seek out knowledge on the histories and traditions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Peoples; and to honestly reflect on how they have shaped our past and will continue to shape our future.

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For media requests, please contact CorporateCommunications@durham.ca.