This framework is an initiative supported and implemented by the Town of Devon for use by municipal staff, government and community members.
In Canada, there has been a growing awareness of historical and contemporary topics about Indigenous Peoples, especially in regard to intergenerational trauma caused by the Indian residential school system, sixties-scoop, colonization and Indigenous rights. Generally, there is also a greater demand and need for more awareness of Indigenous cultures. Through awareness and education comes respect and understanding, and from respect and understanding comes the breakdown of barriers, stigmas, stereotypes, racism and prejudice.
Canadians should make it a priority to become educated; not educated in the traditional sense of sitting in a classroom, but education in the sense of interacting with Indigenous communities, attending events, and sitting with community members, whether they be Elders, leadership, or the general public. We must pave the way for our own individualized learning about the vast Indigenous cultures of the land and take an empathetic and genuine approach to learning about the true history of Canada and the history of Indigenous Peoples. Many Canadians have little to no understanding of Treaties and although they may seem like ancient documents, many of the Treaties were signed only within the last few centuries and are still legally binding to this day.
This document is not intended, in any way, to fully educate the reader on every historical aspect, treaty right or cultural detail, but instead to be an introductory guide and plan in helping the reader develop a general understanding of the Treaty relationship.
View the Town of Devon Cultural Awareness and Relationship Building with Indigenous Peoples 2020 Document