As residents of Waterloo Region, we need to remember that many of our homes and places of employment are situated on land that is the traditional home of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe and Neutral People. We recognize and deeply appreciate their historic connection to this Region. We also recognize the contributions Indigenous peoples have made in shaping and strengthening this Region and are grateful for the opportunity to live and work here and re-affirm our collective commitment to keep the promise and the challenge of Truth and Reconciliation real in our Region.

For me personally this journey of reconciliation has been a welcome opportunity to learn more about the truth of the past and how our words and actions have profoundly affected the wellbeing of First Nations People. I am grateful for the many learning opportunities that I have been part of
and look forward to continuing this journey of understanding of how I can change my personal behaviours and actions to walk hand in hand with First Nations people.