Today on National Indigenous Peoples' Day, we acknowledge and celebrate the rich heritage, diverse cultures, and contributions of Indigenous communities throughout Canada. It's a moment to listen, learn, and reflect on the deep history rooted in this land—a day that acknowledges the devastating ongoing effects of colonialism, while also recognizing indigenous resilience and celebrating achievements.
Let's commit ourselves to ongoing learning, understanding, and respectful recognition of the histories and ongoing realities of Indigenous Peoples in Canada, while continuing to amplify Indigenous voices across Tkaronto —today and every day.
ArtReach is honored to have supported Indigenous artists, arts workers, and community arts organizations in Tkaronto for over 15 years. We also recognize we can do more to support Indigenous Youth across the city. If you’re interested in how ArtReach can be more inclusive and accessible to Indigenous youth artists, email us at info@artreach.org to start a conversation! Together, let's ensure that our commitment to supporting Indigenous arts and cultures is meaningful and impactful!
Acknowledging This Land
We acknowledge that the land ArtReach occupies on is the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples. Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit, and that these territories are guided by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant.
Why We Acknowledge the Land We're On
Land acknowledgements are an intentional and necessary way to recognize the traditional First Nations, Métis, and Inuit territories of a place. This does not exist in a past tense or historical context: colonialism is a current, ongoing process. It involves learning and reflecting on what happened in the past, what is still happening in the present, and what needs to be done to move towards an equitable future.
We will not minimize the harm colonialism has caused and the harm it continues to cause today through continued racism and white supremacy. This is a reminder that the land we call Canada is not ours, and that our government committed genocide to build the country we have. All settlers who live and work on this land must be accountable and are responsible for reconciliation and reparation.
Want to learn more about the peoples, languages, and treaties of the land you occupy? Head to: native-land.ca
Please note that most, if not all, of the arts and community-based organizations listed below accept donations or have products for purchase. To support, please click the links directly to find information on how to donate or buy!
Events
Support Indigenous Arts
Indigenous Community in Tkaronto
Indigenous Youth Roots
Indigenous Climate Action
Educate Yourself
Take Action