RisingOaks Early Learning centers and programs are situated on the lands within the Haldimand Treaty of 1784, a formally ratified agreement acknowledging six miles on either side of the Grand River as treaty territory belonging to Six Nations of the Grand River.

Waterloo region is located within the traditional territories of the Anishinaabe, Chonnonton and Haudenosaunee peoples. This territory is within the lands protected by the Dish with One Spoon Covenant - a peace agreement made between Indigenous nations before the Europeans arrived. The “dish” represents the land that is to be shared peacefully and the “spoon” represents the individuals living on and using the resources of the land in a spirit of mutual co-operation. The covenant characterizes our collective responsibility to each other and Mother Earth - we should take only what we need, leave enough for others and keep the dish clean. By acknowledging this covenant and the First Nations, Métis and Inuit, we are reminded of our important connection to this land where we live, learn and work together as a community.

Today, Waterloo Region is home to Indigenous people from many distinct First Nations, as well as Métis and Inuit.

We acknowledge the enduring presence, knowledges and philosophies of Indigenous Peoples living here today. We acknowledge the continuing accomplishments and contributions Indigenous Peoples make in shaping our sector, our region, our province and country.

Acknowledging the land is only a single, but important, step in the larger context of building relationships and ally-ship, and fulfilling our responsibilities to truth and reconciliation, especially in our context where we see continued acts of colonization against Indigenous peoples in Canada.

Statement by the Prime Minister on National Indigenous Peoples Day

Statement by the Prime Minister on National Indigenous History Month