Awakenings ― We Were Always Here ― Acknowledgment (A film by Jonathan Elliott, 2020)

Summary

The video explores Toronto’s history, focusing on its Indigenous roots and the impact of colonization. It acknowledges the traditional territories of the Mississaugas, Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Chippewa, and Wendat peoples, emphasizing the complex and often deceitful history behind treaties like Treaty 13. The video highlights the erasure and manipulation of Indigenous culture, language, and history while stressing the importance of recognizing the resilience of Indigenous communities. It calls for acknowledging the true history of the land and the role we all play in preserving and honoring this history.

Takeaways

• 🪶 The land in downtown Toronto is the traditional territory of various Indigenous nations, including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabe, the Haudenosaunee, the Chippewa, and the Wendat peoples.
• 🌍 Toronto's name comes from the Mohawk word 'Tkaronto,' meaning 'where there are trees in the water,' reflecting the area's Indigenous origins and history.
• 📜 The Toronto Purchase, an agreement between the British and Mississauga Nation, was marked by deceit and exploitation, including the signing of an invalid treaty.
• 🏛️ The historical narrative of Toronto often omits the experiences and contributions of Indigenous peoples, who have faced deceit, betrayal, and erasure.
• ⚖️ The land acknowledgement brings attention to the unjust treatment of Indigenous peoples, such as the manipulation of treaties and violent conflicts with settlers.
• 🛡️ Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee warriors were crucial in defending Toronto alongside the British during the War of 1812, but their contributions are often forgotten.
• 🌱 The Indigenous peoples' connection to the land, including its use for trade and sustenance, predates European settlement by centuries.
• 🛑 The murder of Mississauga Chief Wabakinine and the lack of justice following his death exemplify the systemic failures in addressing Indigenous grievances.
• 🎖️ Indigenous history and identity have been systematically erased from mainstream narratives, though Indigenous peoples remain resilient and continue to shape the city and country.
• 🔗 The land acknowledgement reminds all to reflect on the true history of the land, emphasizing the responsibility to ensure future generations know their heritage and identity.

Q & A

What is the purpose of acknowledging the land in Toronto?

Acknowledging the land in Toronto serves to recognize the traditional territory of Indigenous nations such as the Mississaugas of the Credit, Anishinaabe, Haudenosaunee, Chippewa, and Wendat peoples. It also brings attention to the historical and ongoing relationship between these nations and the land.

What is the significance of the name 'Toronto' and its origins?

The name 'Toronto' originates from the Mohawk word 'Tkaronto,' meaning 'where there are trees in the water,' referring to a fishing weir at Lake Simcoe. Over time, the name was anglicized and eventually given to the area around the Humber River, disconnecting the word from its Indigenous meaning and history.

What historical event is referred to as the 'Toronto Purchase'?

The Toronto Purchase refers to a land deal between the Mississaugas and the British in 1787. It was marked by deceit and manipulation, with an invalid treaty that lacked proper documentation. A later treaty in 1805 secured more land for the British than originally proposed, for a meager sum of 10 shillings.

What injustice is highlighted by the murder of Chief Wabakinine?

The murder of Chief Wabakinine and the subsequent acquittal of his assailants by British authorities illustrates the systematic failure of settler governance to deliver justice to Indigenous peoples. It highlights how Indigenous cries for justice were met with violence, division, and intimidation.

What role did Indigenous nations play in the defense of Fort York during the War of 1812?

Indigenous nations, particularly Anishinaabe warriors, were the first line of defense in protecting Fort York from American forces in 1813. Their contributions helped defend the land and allowed the city of Toronto to develop, though their stories have largely been ignored in mainstream history.

What does the video suggest about the teaching of Indigenous history in schools?

The video suggests that Indigenous history, including the true origins of Toronto and the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples, is not taught in schools or widely known. It emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and learning about this history.

How did the British manipulate Indigenous nations to secure land ownership?

The British manipulated Indigenous nations through deceitful treaties, exploiting internal divisions and weakened states caused by disease and trade disputes. They secured land through unfair treaties like the Toronto Purchase, which involved manipulation and exploitation.

Why is the erasure of Indigenous history considered significant in the video?

The erasure of Indigenous history is significant because it disregards the foundational role Indigenous peoples played in the development of Toronto and Canada. Their stories, cultures, and contributions have been sidelined and ignored, yet they are essential to understanding the true history of the land.

What message does the video convey about the future of Indigenous history and identity?

The video conveys a message of resilience and continuity, stating that Indigenous peoples have survived attempts to erase their history through colonization. It emphasizes the importance of preserving Indigenous traditions, cultures, and languages, and ensuring future generations have access to their true history and identity.

What does the video suggest individuals should reflect on when acknowledging the land?

The video suggests that individuals should reflect on the deeper history of the land, including the exploitation, betrayal, and struggles faced by Indigenous nations. It encourages people to understand the origins of place names, the injustice of colonial treaties, and the continued presence and contributions of Indigenous peoples.