November 2, 2020 — Treaties Recognition Week occurs annually during the first week of November.

Introduced in 2016, Treaties Recognition Week acknowledges that First Nations were the original occupants of this land we call Ontario, and educates residents about treaty rights and treaty relationships. Treaties should form the basis of a relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. However, in light of the recent events across Canada, it is clear, a week of recognition will not adequately address the immediate need for change and action in this province or country.

Therefore, as part of Treaties Recognition Week, the Ontario Secondary School Teachers’ Federation (OSSTF/FEESO) stands with Indigenous peoples as their daily struggle for justice continues, and condemns all acts of racism, discrimination, intimidation, violence and all forms of hatred. Recognition and respect for the inherent rights of Indigenous peoples should occur daily by all settlers and by every level of government.

In solidarity, we ask our members to act in in a manner that respects Indigenous peoples and their ways of knowing and doing. In the spirit of Truth and Reconciliation, we call for the inherent rights of all Indigenous peoples to be defended and for treaties to be respected and honoured.  We call on all levels of government to take action aimed at finding immediate resolutions to the unjust conflicts experienced by the Indigenous peoples of this land we call Ontario, and around the world.