The first week of November marks Treaties Recognition Week in Ontario.

“An annual opportunity to reflect on the importance of the more than 40 treaties and other agreements covering this province,” said Indigenous Affairs Minister Greg Rickford in a release. “Outlining the rights, responsibilities and relationships between Indigenous peoples and the provincial and federal governments.”

Here in Northwestern Ontario there are four Treaties which make up the region, Treaty 3, Treaty 5 and Treaty 9 as well as the Robinson-Superior Treaty.

It is considered one of the critical steps on the path towards reconciliation, involving education, supported by the Ontario government.

Treaties Recognition Week began in 2016 and was one of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.