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Ontario is helping produce Anishinabek Nation’s We Are All Treaty People teachers kit to build public awareness and promote a greater understanding of treaties across the province.

Raising awareness about treaty relationships and working with First Nations is part of the Ontario government’s treaty strategy, which is promoting constructive engagement with First Nation communities, revitalizing treaty relationships and improving social and economic outcomes for Aboriginal peoples.

The teachers kit is connected to the Ontario curriculum and is full of fun and engaging activities that will help students in grades 1-8 learn about treaty relationships. It includes teacher’s guides, books, maps, DVDs and an 800-piece Treaty of Fort Niagara LEGO® wampum belt, designed by nine-year-old Alexander Hebert from Dokis First Nation.
Supporting treaty education is part of the government’s plan for Ontario. The four-part plan is building Ontario up by investing in people’s talents and skills, building new public infrastructure like roads and transit, creating a dynamic, supportive environment where business thrives, and building a secure retirement savings plan. 
QUOTES

“Treaties are fundamental to the relationship between First Nation communities and their neighbours and to the future prosperity of all Ontarians. I’m thrilled that we can partner with the Anishinabek Nation to help increase public awareness on treaties and our shared history as truly, we are all treaty people.”
— David Zimmer, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs
 
“The lack of understanding about the treaty relationship in Ontario has been a hindrance to the learning spirit of First Nations people and to all of the people in Ontario. The We Are All Treaty People teacher’s kit will help alleviate racism and support teachers in the area of treaty education.”
— Patrick Wedaseh Madahbee, Grand Council Chief of Anishinabek Nation

QUICK FACTS

? The government provided $107,000 seed funding to help produce the We Are All Treaty People teachers kit.
? The kit is endorsed by the First Nations, Métis & Inuit Education Association of Ontario.
? More than 90 pre-orders for the kit have already been received from school boards, universities and First Nations.
? Ontario is covered by 46 treaties and other agreements, such as land purchases by the Crown signed between 1781 and 1930.
? Treaties are the legally binding agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and the federal and provincial governments.

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