Caledon, Mississaugas of the Credit host Council-to-Council discussion

May 22, 2025 · 0 Comments

By Riley Murphy

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

On May 14, the Town of Caledon and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation (MCFN) came together for a council-to-council discussion at the historic and newly renovated Council House in Hagersville.

The gathering helped to reaffirm their commitment to reconciliation, mutual respect, and their goal of working together closely.

During the gathering, Elder Darin Wybenga held a treaty education session, which was an important step in strengthening relationships between the councils and promoting a better understanding between the Town and Indigenous communities.

In Mayor Groves’ presentation on friendship, she presented a wood board in friendship and with respect to Ogimaa-Kwe (Chief) Claire Sault of the MCFN.

“The board was crafted by a local artisan, using wood from a fallen black cherry tree in north/central Caledon. The board has both of our logos and the words friends in Anishinaabe/Ojibway and English,” shared Mayor Groves in her speech.

“At the beginning of every event and formal Council meeting, we say the Land Acknowledgement and while I know that is important, I also know that we need to do so much more than that.

The Town of Caledon is on an important path to reconciliation both internally at Town Hall and in leading and supporting reconciliation efforts in our communities.”

Mayor Groves spoke on the current steps taken as they work down this important path.

It was shared that they established internally a Staff Working Group on Indigenous Relations, developed and implemented a proponent-led Indigenous Engagement Protocol, provided training and education opportunities to staff and created a new position in the CAO’s office, Indigenous Engagement Advisor.

In the community they are honouring, celebrating, and commemorating Indigenous Histories, Culture and Traditions through events, public art, curated exhibits, education/awareness, and partnerships.

“Events like these aren’t just formalities; they’re real steps toward building true partnerships and understanding,” said Ogimaa-Kwe (Chief) Claire Sault during the meeting. “With National Indigenous History Month coming up, it’s a good reminder of the work still ahead of us.”

On June 14, during National Indigenous History Month, and as part of Caledon Day celebrations, Mayor Groves, in a ceremony with Chief Sault, will renew the Wampum Belt commitment with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nations. The Wampum Belt represents a bond of friendship, peaceful relations and a shared responsibility to the land.

“I look forward to our Caledon Day celebration on June 14 when we will renew our friendship Wampum Belt in front of thousands of residents and visitors who will be in attendance,” shared Mayor Groves.