Back to SearchPembroke: Earlier today, Warden of the County of Renfrew Debbie Robinson was joined by Chief Wendy Jocko of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation for a ceremonial raising of an orange flag at the County of Renfrew Administration Building. The event was in recognition and acknowledgement of the trauma and suffering of those affected by the dark legacy of the residential school system.
“Today’s ceremony was another step in the journey along the path to truth and reconciliation, as the County of Renfrew continues to advance discussions regarding reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership, “shared Warden Robinson.
“Over the next few years, it is my hope we will work together to identify, protect, and commemorate Indian Residential School burial sites and repatriate the remains of children who died, should that be the wish of the affected families and communities. We will explore ways to work together to increase public awareness and deepen our collective understanding of the history and continued harms of the Indian Residential School System. We owe this collaborative approach to the many children that never made it home - to uncover the truth, rectify past wrongs and meaningfully contribute to the often-difficult work of true reconciliation,” shared Chief Wendy Jocko.
Both Warden Robinson and Chief Jocko hope today’s ceremony will encourage all people of Renfrew County to learn more about the rich and diverse cultures and outstanding achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples both locally and across Canada. At the August meeting of County Council, staff was directed by Council to fly an orange flag as a symbol of support and recognition for those affected by the harms of the residential school legacy.
The county has a long-standing positive relationship with the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation and is grateful for their many continued demonstrations of friendship. In 2016 the County of Renfrew and the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation signed a Memorandum of Understanding that created a framework to encourage development in infrastructure and economic opportunities, and skills development for the betterment of both communities.
For Media Inquiries:
Paul Moreau Chief Administrative Officer/Clerk, County of Renfrew 613 735-7288
Michael Barber Media Relations/Grants Coordinator, County of Renfrew 613-735-7288
PHOTO L-R: Warden of the County of Renfrew, Debbie Robinson; Chief Wendy Jocko, Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation.
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