Indigenous leaders meet with Hamilton city councillors in ‘landmark gathering of leadership’

Indigenous leaders and newly elected Hamilton city councillors say they’re working
towards better relations and a brighter future. A historic meeting was held today with a focus on sharing an open dialogue over the next four years.

Indigenous leaders and advocates call it a “landmark gathering of leadership.” A welcoming ceremony was held at Battlefield Park in Stoney Creek on Monday. This is the first time a meeting like this has taken place.

The organizer of the event, Nawalka Geeshy Meegwun says, “we want to walk this road side by side, helping each other and supporting each other, educating each other, sharing wisdom sharing guidance, and all of the wonderful things that would help a relationship flourish.”

11 of Hamilton’s council members came to today’s ceremony. Ward 2 councillor Cameron Kroetsch says it was an honour to be welcomed into the space.

“It was great for them to introduce themselves, and share what their roles are, what their responsibilities are and to challenge us to be thoughtful about what our roles and responsibilities are,” Kroetsch said.

The day started with a sacred fire outside of the premises, where open dialogue was encouraged. Topics included the Greenbelt expansion, homelessness, and child welfare. It was then followed by a sit-down lunch inside, where traditional talking sticks were shared with the councillors.

“We’ve asked them to take these sticks into their meetings so that they will witness other people’s stories and listen to other people’s voices as well as listen to their own voices,” Meegwun said.

“It’s a huge responsibility. They’re asking us to carry this as we go forward, they’re asking us to make sure we bring these gifts with us when we’re having conversations with one another, and I take that very seriously,” Kroetsch said.

There was a big focus on open communication between the Indigenous community and the city. There was also lots of excitement for what’s to come.

The goal is to continue this work well beyond today.