Chippewas of the Thames First Nation Flag Raised at London City Hall to Commemorate the 220th Anniversary of the London Township Treaty

September 8, 2016

Chippewa of the Thames Flag being raised in London, Ontario, on September 7, 2016, to commemorate — Chippewa of the Thames First Nation Flag being raised in London, Ontario, on September 7, 2016, to commemorate the 220th anniversary of the London Township Treaty.

LONDON, ON (September 7, 2016)–Chief Leslee White-Eye was on-hand this morning to raise the Chippewas of the Thames First Nation’s flag at London City Hall to commemorate the 220^th anniversary of the London Township Treaty.

This event is significant. This morning’s flag raising acknowledges London and Chippewas’ shared history and will educate the public on the Treaty signed on September 7^th, 1796. The London Township Treaty is a land purchase agreement between the Chippewas and the British Crown for a tract of land located north of the Thames River.

“This is a positive step towards building a respectful relationship between the City and Chippewas of the Thames. One of the key tenants of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 recommendations is raising awareness of the history of Treaties and Indigenous rights. Initiatives like this serve to foster awareness and educational opportunities around our shared Treaty history for Londoners,” stated Chief Leslee White-Eye.

Anishinabek Nation Grand Council Chief Patrick Madahbee added his acknowledgement to the flag initiative.

“On behalf of the Anishinabek Nation, I commend Chief White-Eye of Chippewas of the Thames for taking a lead towards fostering positive relationships with the City of London,” says Madahbee. “In doing so, acknowledging and reinforcing that we all have a responsibility to inform and educate on the history of this land and its people – locally, regionally and nationally. It makes for a better understanding that we are all part of a Treaty relationship”

The Chippewas of the Thames First Nation is committed to strengthening the ongoing relationship with the City of London.

Background

Signed on September 7^th, 1796, the London Township Treaty is also referred to as Treaty No. 6. Signatories to the Treaty include Alexander McKee signed on behalf of King George III, and 13 ‘Chiefs, Warriors, and People of the Cheppewa [sic] Nation’ who are ancestors of the modern-day communities of Aamjiwnaang First Nation, Caldwell First Nation, Chippewas of the Thames First Nation, Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, and Walpole Island First Nation.

For more information, contact Clint Couchie, Policy Analyst, 519-289-5555.