Territory Acknowledgement

Territory Acknowledgement

We wish to acknowledge and honour the land upon which this library stands as the historic and Traditional Territory of the Anishinabek Nation. We recognize and thank The People of the Three Fires, known as Ojibway, Odawa, and Pottawatomie Nations. And further give thanks to the Chippewas of Saugeen, and the Chippewas of Nawash, known collectively as the Saugeen Ojibway Nation.

Map showing Traditional Territory of the Saukiing Anishnaabekiing Saugeen Ojibway Nation Treaties.

Learning about treaties & how they continue to shape the province today is an important part of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. Read more about the history of treaties in The Saugeen Ojibway Nation at: https://www.saugeenojibwaynation.ca/node/75

In recognition that municipal boundaries are an ongoing colonial construct that ignores First Nations traditional territories, First Nations people with a status card or band membership of a local First Nation, and who are living in the traditional Saugeen Ojibway Nation lands, including Treaty 45 1/2, will be entitled to free library membership. In the spirit of original treaties, the library shall share its resources with mutual respect. The Hanover Public Library will continue to provide books and materials by First Nations and Indigenous authors in its collection. 

These actions are a part of the Hanover Public Library’s mission as a welcoming and upbeat community hub that fosters lifelong learning.

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30th marks National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters
Orange Shirt Day – Every Child Matters began in Williams Lake, British Columbia, on September 30, 2013. Established to honour Residential School Survivors, their families, and those who never returned home, it serves as a powerful reminder of the lasting impacts of the Residential School system. What began as a grassroots initiative has since evolved into a nationally recognized movement, with individuals, organizations, and communities across Canada participating in acts of remembrance, reflection, and reconciliation each year.

At the library, we will recognize this day by inviting our patrons to:

Decorative image. Every Child Matters

Resources to read and learn about residential schools

 

A national Residential School Crisis Line has been set up to provide support for former students and those affected. Access emotional and crisis referral services by calling the 24-hour national crisis line: 1-866-925-4419.