Each year, Treaties Recognition Week is observed during the first week of November. This is an opportunity for everyone in Ontario to learn more about and recognize the importance of treaty rights and relationships.
Treaties are the legally binding agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and the federal and provincial governments. Ontario is covered by 46 treaties and other agreements, like land purchases made by the Crown. However, treaty-making preceded North American settlement: Indigenous Nations had Treaty Agreements with one another before Europeans arrived.
Treaties matter to everyone in Canada; we are all Treaty People. They represent a mutual commitment to building a prosperous future for everybody. Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities have a responsibility of knowing and upholding Treaty obligations. It is important to remember that treaties are as much a part of today as when they were made, often referred to as living documents.
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