This article was written by one of our dedicated volunteers, Iris.
June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day. On this day, we recognize and celebrate the vibrant cultures and tremendous contributions of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
At the Ontario Farmland Trust, we protect Ontario’s farmland for future generations. We cannot do this work without acknowledging the complex history of the lands we love. Farmland in Ontario exists on Indigenous lands—lands stewarded by Indigenous peoples since time immemorial. These lands hold profound cultural, spiritual, economic, and ecological significance for Indigenous peoples. At OFT, we acknowledge that the history of agriculture in Ontario cannot be separated from colonial policies intent on the displacement of Indigenous communities and the appropriation of Indigenous land.
Indigenous peoples have always been and continue to be the original stewards of this land. We recognize Indigenous food systems and land knowledge, knowing that they are rooted in respect, culture, reciprocity, and sustainability. We recognize the long-lasting negative impacts of colonial policies and practices that have harmed Indigenous food systems, food sovereignty, and land access. These values align with OFT’s overall goals and principles of conservation, sustainability, and respect for the environment and the resources it provides.
Reconciliation is an ongoing commitment that requires genuine listening and meaningful action. Today, OFT will make space for Indigenous organizations involved in agriculture and food systems, elevating their mission and message.
- National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture & Food
- “At NCIAF, we lead with purpose. As an Indigenous-led, non-profit organization, we’re committed to advancing reconciliation within the agriculture industry while fostering a national dialogue on Indigenous agriculture.”
- Ojibiikaan
- “Ojibiikaan was founded in 2018 to address gaps in Toronto related to Indigenous food sovereignty, such as food and nutrition education, sustainable food systems and practices, and traditional ecological knowledge. Ojibiikaan provides opportunities to engage with the land across the City to Toronto and the outer city.”
- Mno Aki Land Trust
- “We are Indigenous grandmothers who are vested with the responsibility of being caretakers of our Mama Aki whom we call Beautiful Good Earth, Mno Aki and we include all lands and waters in our vast territories. As part of our mission, we are offering an avenue for reparation and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples and Canada. We are mandated to assist landless Indigenous people reconnect with the land through ceremonies, seed planting and other cultural activities.”
- All Our Relations Land Trust (AORLT)
- AORLT is a charitable organization led by Indigenous Peoples who are committed to supporting and restoring diverse ecosystems within the greater Kingston area and safeguarding the life of the land for the benefit of past, present, and future generations.
National Indigenous Peoples Day is a reminder for us to think critically about the lands we live on and depend on. Please join us in advancing Truth and Reconciliation on this day, and every day.