Welcome to Congress 2025 | Land Acknowledgement | Guidelines for respectful engagement | Post-event considerations | Indigenous Resources at George Brown College | References | Acknowledgements
Indigenous Protocols for Congress 2025
George Brown College and the Federation are committed to supporting meaningful and respectful discussions and activities during the 2025 Congress of Humanities and Social Sciences. This page provides guidance to attendees on respectful engagements with Indigenous communities at Congress 2025.
These guidelines are not static or all-encompassing; they outline key principles for engaging with Indigenous Peoples, their knowledge systems, and the lands on which we gather.
By adhering to these protocols, attendees can honour Indigenous traditions and cultural heritage, promote meaningful relationships rooted in mutual respect, and ensure that participation aligns with the principles of truth, reconciliation, and decolonization. This commitment fosters inclusive, respectful, and culturally aligned events, underscoring the shared responsibility to engage thoughtfully with Indigenous communities.
All attendees are invited to review this page before participating in Congress.
Welcome to Congress 2025
Congress 2025 will be held in Tkaronto (Toronto, Ontario). In the Mohawk language, Tkaronto translates to "a place where trees stand in the water," a term that originally described a water channel between Lake Simcoe and Lake Couchiching, as documented on maps dating back to 1675. Over time, the name shifted southward and became associated with a fort established at the mouth of the Humber River.
An opening ceremony for Congress organizers on May 30, 2025, will feature George Brown College senior leadership and the Congress 2025 Academic Convenor acknowledging Indigenous Peoples and traditional lands on which the event will occur. This reception will officially welcome all Congress activities, including the individual association conferences. Attendees wishing to include a territorial acknowledgement in their presentations and participation in events are encouraged to use the Land Acknowledgements provided below.
Dish With One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant
The Dish With One Spoon Wampum belt represents a symbolic agreement between the Indigenous nations in the Great Lakes and St. Lawerence River regions. It embodies principles of shared land stewardship, sustainable resource use, and peaceful coexistence. This covenant remains relevant today, guiding collaboration, ethical environmental practices, and reciprocal relationships in modern society. For source material and more information on the Dish with One Spoon Wampum belt, please visit the Circles of Reconciliation document here.
Two-Row Wampum Belt Covenant
The Two-Row Wampum Belt, Gaswéñdah or Kaswentha, symbolizes one of the earliest treaty relationships between the Haudenosaunee and European settlers, dating back to 1613. The design embodies the mutual agreement of peaceful coexistence and non-interference. This agreement is a living treaty that underscores the principles of sovereigntiy, friendship and equality. It serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of maintaining harmonious relationships while respecting the autonomy of all parties. For source material and more information about the Two Row Wampum Belt Treaty, please visit this article here.
Treaty 13
Treaty 13, also known as the Toronto Purchase, was signed in 1805 between the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the British Crown. This treaty encompasses what is now the City of Toronto. Respect for the treaty and the land reflects a commitment and the recognition of the Mississaugas of the Credit as stewards of the land and highlights the importance of togetherness in honouring shared histories and fostering a future built on mutual respect, collaboration, and understanding. For source material and more information on Treaty 13, please visit the Mississaugas of the Credit website here.
Reflections on the 10th anniversary
As we approach the 10th anniversary of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC), it is a moment to reflect on the progress made and the work that remains in implementing the Calls to Action. By embracing the theme of togetherness, we can continue the work of reconciliation—bridging divides, amplifying Indigenous voices, and ensuring principles of respect and stewardship guide our collective path forward.
Colleges and Institutes Canada Indigenous Education Protocol
In 2015, the same year the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada published its findings, George Brown College signed the Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) Indigenous Education Protocol. The ground-breaking information that was made public after the TRC launched the 2007 Indian Residential School Settlement Agreement (IRSSA) became a catalyst for reform regarding Indigenous education, a significant component of reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Land Acknowledgement
Why we do Land Acknowledgements
A Land Acknowledgement is a statement that recognizes the traditional territory and ancestral lands of Indigenous Peoples who have historically inhabited and continue to steward the land. It recognizes their enduring presence and the significance of the land on which we gather and where George Brown College operates. It is also a reminder of the treaties and our responsibility to uphold them as guests and treaty members with respect, responsibility, and reciprocity.
Land Acknowledgements play a key role in building and maintaining meaningful relationships with Indigenous Peoples and are considered an act of reconciliation. It is critical to engage with Land Acknowledgements to remind ourselves and others of our responsibilities to the land and honour those residing on the land historically and in the present.
When to do Land Acknowledgements
Land Acknowledgements are shared at the beginning of events such as meetings, webinars, lectures, and ceremonies. They remind us of our responsibilities to the land and honour the Indigenous peoples who have stewarded it historically and today.
Who should deliver a Land Acknowledgement
Anyone who is a guest on the land can deliver an acknowledgment. While Indigenous people may choose to provide them, it is not their responsibility. It is a respectful practice for non-Indigenous individuals to do so. The person delivering the Land Acknowledgement should pronounce the Indigenous names properly. A pronunciation guide is provided below.
For Congress 2025
In preparation for Congress, we are providing the College’s Land Acknowledgment, the City of Toronto’s Land Acknowledgment, and an extended virtual acknowledgement for hybrid events. For Congress events, we encourage attendees to reflect on the histories, presences, and ongoing relationships tied to this territory, as well as the responsibilities these connections bring.
George Brown College Land Acknowledgement for Congress
George Brown College is located on the traditional territory of Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
We also recognize the City of Toronto Land Acknowledgement and other Land Acknowledgements that may apply to members visiting today and participating in Congress.
For more information on the George Brown College Land Acknowledgement, please visit this website here.
City of Toronto Land Acknowledgement
We acknowledge the land we are meeting on is the traditional territory of many nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee, and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit, and Metis people. We also acknowledge that Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation.
For more information on the City of Toronto Land Acknowledgement, please visit this website here.
Virtual Land Acknowledgement
As we are not all gathered in the same space, we recognize that this land acknowledgment might not be for the territory that you are currently on. We ask that if this is the case, you take the responsibility to acknowledge the traditional territory you are on and the current treaty holders.
Learning to pronounce Indigenous community names correctly is a fundamental sign of respect and recognition. These names carry cultural, historical, and linguistic significance, reflecting the identity and resilience of Indigenous peoples. Taking the time to learn these names demonstrates a commitment to reconciliation and meaningful engagement.
Pronunications
Tkaronto – [tuk-ah-RON-toe]
Mississaugas – [mis-uh-SAW-guhs]
Anishinaabe – [uh-nish-uh-NAH-bay]
Chippewa – [CHIP-uh-waa]
Haudenosaunee – [hoh-dehn-oh-SHAW-nee]
Wendat – [WEN-dat]
Inuit – [IN-u-it]
Metis – [may-TEE]
Cree – [Kree]
Role and importance
Elders and Knowledge Keepers are cultural custodians who protect and share traditional teachings, languages, and practices. They are called upon to conduct ceremonies, provide spiritual guidance, mentor learners, and guide discussions. Their participation enriches events and ensures authenticity in reconciliation and cultural respect conversations.
We create and maintain a relationship by treating the Elders and Knowledge Keepers with respect from the beginning to the end of our engagement with them.
Guidelines for engagement
Speaking and listening
Effective communication with Elders and Knowledge Keepers involves active listening, patience, and attentiveness. Engage with a humble heart and allow their teachings to resonate without rushing or interrupting. Respectfully seek clarification if there is something you do not understand. Your engagement should demonstrate your full presence, showing you value their time and insights.
Curiosity, humility, and asking questions
If you approach Elders, do so with genuine curiosity and openness. When asking questions, ensure they come from a place of humility, not entitlement. Recognize that their knowledge is often rooted in long histories and deep cultural understanding. Avoid intrusive or personal questions, and instead, seek to learn from their experiences and wisdom without challenging or questioning their teachings.
Remember that each Elder speaks from the perspective of their own community, and their teachings reflect specific traditions, histories, and beliefs. The Elder’s viewpoint may not represent all Indigenous peoples. Approach each interaction with awareness of this diversity and an openness to understanding.
Presence
Norms around physical space can vary widely. It’s important to be attuned to the Elder's comfort levels and wait for cues before initiating physical gestures like handshakes or hugs. Respect the Elder or Knowledge Keeper’s personal space, physically and emotionally. Always ask permission before photographing, touching or picking up a sacred item or cultural clothing piece.
Cultural significance
Smudging is a spiritual cleansing practice that involves sacred medicines such as sage, cedar, sweetgrass, or tobacco. It purifies individuals and spaces, fostering harmony, mindfulness, and a respectful atmosphere for gatherings.
Respect for ceremony and tradition
Be mindful of sacred items and actions, and always seek permission before touching or photographing ceremonial objects. Recognize that ceremonies are often imbued with meaning that transcends the immediate context, and approach them with reverence and sensitivity.
Scent Sensitivities
We recognize that smudging involves natural smoke and scents that may not be suitable for everyone. If you experience scent sensitivities or discomfort, we ask that you respectfully and quietly step out of the space and return once the smudge is complete. We kindly encourage this to be done with care and minimal disruption to the gathering.
Post-event considerations
After participating in an event with Elders and Knowledge Keepers, it is imperative to reflect on the teachings and integrate the learnings into future events.
Indigenous events at Congress 2025
George Brown College is actively coordinating various Indigenous-led events for Congress 2025. These events will be detailed in upcoming updates, alongside regular programming. We are collaborating with Indigenous colleagues at George Brown, wider communities across the Toronto region, and Ontario to ensure meaningful engagement, representation, and centering of Indigenous perspectives at Congress 2025.
Indigenous Resources at George Brown College
Indigenous Community Resources and Links | George Brown College
George Brown Indigenous Education Strategy
Indigenous Supports and Services
Indigenous spaces
For Indigenous participants at Congress 2025, tobacco ties, tobacco, and smudging materials are provided for free in our designated spaces.
Careless, J. M. S., Young, E., & James-Abra, E. (2022, March 11). Toronto. The Canadian Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/toronto
City of Toronto. (n.d.). Land Acknowledgement. City of Toronto. Retrieved from https://www.toronto.ca/city-government/accessibility-human-rights/indigenous-affairs-office/land-acknowledgement/
Currie, R. F. (2020, April). Respect, trust, treaties, and reconciliation. Circles for Reconciliation. Retrieved from https://circlesforreconciliation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Respect-Trust-Treaties-Reconciliation.pdf
George Brown College. (n.d.). George Brown College’s Indigenous land acknowledgment. Retrieved from https://www.georgebrown.ca/george-brown-colleges-indigenous-land-acknowledgment
George Brown College. (n.d.). Indigenous community resources and links. Retrieved from https://www.georgebrown.ca/indigenous/indigenous-services/resources-links
Jumblies Theatre + Arts. (n.d.). Treaties for Torontonians. Talking Treaties. Retrieved from https://talkingtreaties.ca/
Keefer, T. (2014, March 10). A short introduction to the Two Row Wampum. Briarpatchmagazine.com. https://briarpatchmagazine.com/articles/view/a-short-introduction-to-the-two-row-wampum
Museum of Toronto. (n.d.). Treaties between the Mississaugas of the Credit and the City of Toronto. Museum of Toronto. Retrieved from https://www.museumoftoronto.com/collection/treaties-between-the-mississaugas-of-the-credit-and-the-city-of-toronto/
Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. (n.d.). The Toronto Purchase Treaty, No. 13 (1805). Retrieved from https://mncfn.ca/the-toronto-purchase-treaty-no-13-1805/
Onondaga Nation. (2014, February 22). Two Row Wampum – Gä•sweñta’. Onondaga Nation. Retrieved from https://www.onondaganation.org/culture/wampum/two-row-wampum-belt-guswenta/
University of Toronto Libraries. (n.d.). Biindigen welcome: The Indigenous history of Tkaronto. University of Toronto. Retrieved December 17, 2024, from https://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/curriculum-review/view-treaties-anishinabek-nation
Acknowledgements
This page was created in collaboration with many departments at George Brown College, including the Congress 2025 team, Indigenous Initiatives, Indigenous Advisory Council, Procurement, Facilities, as well as members of the Senior Leadership Team. We give special thanks to Wisdom and Knowledge Keeper Ed Sackaney (LinkedIn) for his commentary and feedback. We extend our gratitude to each and all.