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Wynne, First Nations sign “milestone" accord

The deal affirming the right to self-government and creating a framework for cooperation is also billed as offering a path to further reconciliation between First Nations and the people of Ontario.

Thestar.com
Aug. 24, 2015
By Richard J. Brennan

The Liberal government has signed an “historic” political accord with Ontario’s First Nations.

Presented at a special smudging ceremony at Queen’s Park, the accord marks a renewed political relationship with native communities, Premier Kathleen Wynne said Monday.

“Most of all, it is an important opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of people’s across the province and to start a better future for our children and grandchildren,” she said.

The accord signed by Wynne and Ontario Regional Chief Isadore Day commits the province to establishing a framework for working directly with First Nations.

The accord:

The document also commits the province to twice yearly meetings.

“This political path forward for First Nations is the most important collective milestone in modern times,” Day stated.

Wynne noted that she will speak to an apology later this year for Ontario’s role in Indian residential schools where native students were routinely abused.

The premier also noted that native history in Ontario, and First Nations’ role in today's society, will be added as a “mandatory part” of the education curriculum.