Did you know...
92% of Ontario residents live in the Upper Canada treaties area (2011).
~3.7 million people live in the area covered by the Toronto Purchase.
Over 500,000 people live in the six treaty areas in Northern Ontario.
There are more than 40 treaties that govern the province of Ontario.
Statistics via Government of Ontario.
The Government of Ontario describes treaties as, "legally binding agreements that set out the rights, responsibilities and relationships of First Nations and the federal and provincial governments."
While this definition is useful, it is important to recognize that the responsibility to uphold treaty lies with all citizens of Turtle Island. Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples both play a role in upholding treaties since they govern our relationship with one another and the land. There must be a mutual respect. Treaty laws are upheld by our Constitution and are the foundation of all Canadian governance.
In the video (at right) from the Government of Ontario, Knowledge Keeper Robert Greene (Treaty 3) explains how treaties affect all aspects life.