Federal Government Formally Apologizes To Several Ontario First Nations

The federal government has formally apologized to Aundeck Omni Kaning, M’Chigeeng, Sheguiandah, Sheshegwaning and Zhiibaahaasing Ontario First Nations for past wrongs relating to the Crown’s mismanagement of their monies in the late 1800s, and the negative impacts experienced by the five communities as a result.

The long-overdue apology was delivered at a ceremony held yesterday with First Nations leadership, Elders, youth and community members at Aundeck Omni Kaning First Nation.

At the ceremony, the government and First Nations also commemorated a claim settlement that provides a total of $447.9 million in compensation to be shared among the five First Nations.

This financial settlement resolves three historical claims which date back to the late 1800s and are the focus of the apology.

It relates to the Crown’s mismanagement of the First Nations’ monies from past land sales. Instead of enabling the Anishinaabeg communities to thrive and economically benefit from the land sales, the Crown used the profits to build roads and open up Manitoulin Island for settlement.

The feds acknowledge that went against the spirit and intent of the Treaties, breaking their promises and creating injustices which continue to be felt by the communities today.

In a release, the government says this is an opportunity for all people in Canada to learn about our shared history and the harmful legacies of colonialism so we can move toward greater understanding and respect.

To learn more, visit Government of Canada.