Xinran

As a new settler in Canada, I acknowledge with respect and admiration that the land I now live on, Oakville, is the traditional territory of Mississaugas Credit of First Nations, and homeland of Neutral, Huron-Wendat, Haudenosaunee, and Anishinaabeg. Oakville is rich in history and is situated within the territories covered by Treaty 14 and Treaty 22 of the Upper Canada Treaties, as well as the One Dish One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, which promotes the peaceful sharing and common stewardship of the land and its resources. Though as a new immigrant to the land, I am not historically included in One Dish One Spoon, I recognize that I am now sharing the same dish, I will take responsibility for upholding and continuing the spirit of peace and sharing. I am deeply aware of the harm that the people of this land have suffered in the past. I am working hard to repair this relationship, and ultimately achieve final reconciliation in the future. I also recognize the limitations of my understanding. I commit that I am constantly unlearning the harmful assumptions, learning and relearning the truth that has been ignored, and continuously contributing to truth and reconciliation. I am being called to listen more deeply, to acknowledge the harm that continues to exist in our country, and to understand that reconciliation is not a destination, but a lifelong commitment to restoring relationships.

Amplify Indigenous voices by listening to their stories, traditions, and truth, both online and in our communities.

Create opportunities for genuine connection between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people through cultural events.

Support Indigenous self-determination by changing laws, sharing resources, and let institutions accountable for lasting transformation.