Truth and reconciliation
What is a territorial acknowledgement?
A territorial acknowledgement is a formal statement that recognizes the unique and enduring relationship that exists between Indigenous Peoples and their traditional territories. Acknowledgement of the traditional territory upon which we all live is an important first step toward reconciliation.
Our acknowledgement
As we gather, we are reminded that Guelph is situated on land that is steeped in rich indigenous history and currently home to many First Nations, Métis and Inuit people.
Today, we acknowledge the Dish with One Spoon territory and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation on whose traditional territory we are meeting.
Let us be grateful to the many generations who have come before us, as we strive to walk together on a path of mutual respect and support. May the decisions we make, and the activities we pursue, be inclusive and mindful of the many generations yet to come.
Use of acknowledgement
The territorial acknowledgement will be used by the Library CEO or designate at the start of meetings, celebrations, or other official events as deemed appropriate, and that are hosted or supported by Guelph Public Library.
About The Dish With One Spoon treaty
The Dish With One Spoon is a treaty between the Anishinaabe, Mississaugas and Haudenosaunee that bound them to share the territory and protect the land. The “Dish” represents what is now Southern Ontario. All of us that share this territory eat out of the dish with only one spoon. That means we have to share the responsibility of ensuring the dish is never empty, which includes taking care of the land and the creatures we share it with. Importantly there are no knives at the table which represents keeping the peace. Subsequent Indigenous Nations and peoples, Europeans and all newcomers, have been invited into this treaty in the spirit of peace, friendship and respect.
Treaty land
Guelph is situated on territory that is part of the Between the Lakes Purchase Treaty, No. 3 (1972) and treaty land and territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.
Learn more about treaties and the land you live on:
The path ahead
We encourage others to continue their reconciliation journey by visiting the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation (NCTR). The NCTR is the permanent home for all statements, documents, and other materials gathered by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.
