City of Mississauga Takes Steps to Strengthen Relations with Indigenous Communities

The City of Mississauga takes another step forward on the path to reaffirming its commitment to building and evolving relations with Indigenous communities in Mississauga.

“Mississauga has a historical and valued relationship with Indigenous communities, including the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “We respect the ancestral lands on which Mississauga resides, and with Council’s endorsement, we will continue to foster this relationship and look forward to engaging with the Indigenous community as we work together to build a strong future for our City while honouring its rich history.”

In recognition of Treaties’ Week, the Civic Centre clock tower will be lit purple and white tonight.

The Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation’s flag will also be permanently installed in the City’s Council Chamber, as a sign of respect for the history of the Treaties that cover the lands of the City of Mississauga. A ceremony to officially introduce the flag will take place in 2021.

According to a report presented to City officials, staff identified seven actionable items in response to the Federal Government’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, which is intended to enable further reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada.

The City of Mississauga endorses the Declaration of Mutual Commitment and Friendship by the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) and the Ontario Federation of Indigenous Friendship Centers (OFIFC). This declaration aims to improve the quality of life of Indigenous peoples in municipalities across all of Ontario.

The City’s name itself descends from the word “Missisakis” in the Anishinaabemowin language used by Indigenous peoples who lived along the banks of the Credit River. As such, a proposed amendment to a City by-law to formally recognize the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and Indigenous origin of the City of Mississauga’s name will be brought before City Council next week after being introduced at General Committee yesterday.

Tags

• By-laws and Policy
• Indigenous Relations