Press Release
County of Renfrew
Pembroke: Thursday is the first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The County of Renfrew wishes to acknowledge and recognize the truths of our country’s past and fully supports the path to reconciliation.
We encourage all people of Renfrew County to learn more about the rich heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples both locally and across Canada. The County of Renfrew continues to advance discussions regarding reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.
“I urge everyone to take the time to commemorate and learn more about the rich and diverse cultures, stories, lived-experiences and histories of the Algonquin people, and other First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples,” shared Warden Debbie Robinson. “We look forward to continuing to build upon the positive relationship we have with the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation, and we thank the Algonquin People for their many and continued expressions of friendship.”
The county has a long-standing positive relationship with the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation and is grateful for their many continued demonstrations of friendship. In 2016 the County of Renfrew and the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation signed a Memorandum of Understanding that created a framework to encourage development in infrastructure and economic opportunities, and skills development for the betterment of both communities.
At the most recent meeting, County Council approved the creation of a garden on the grounds of its administration building in Pembroke, to honour and recognize publicly its commitment to moving forward with recommendations made by the truth and reconciliation commission, as well as training and education for both staff and council.
The County of Renfrew has also launched an Indigenous Relations webpage that contains information and resources.
