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Joint statement recognizing National Day for Truth and Reconciliation

September 30, 2021 (Guelph, Ont.) – Beef Farmers of Ontario, Grain Farmers of Ontario, Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Sheep Farmers, Egg Farmers of Ontario, AgScape, Farm & Food Care Ontario, Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario, Ontario Broiler Hatching Egg & Chick Commission, Ontario Turkey, Ontario Apple Growers, Grape Growers of Ontario and Ontario Equestrian join together to observe Canada’s first National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The day honours and publicly commemorates the lost children and Survivors of residential schools, their families and lasting impact on their communities.

As agricultural organizations representing farmers across the province, we all recognize the role the agriculture industry played in the colonization of what is now known as Canada. We also acknowledge farms across Ontario are situated on treaty lands and traditional territories of many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples across the province.

September 30th has become a day of reflection for our nation and a day to acknowledge, listen and understand how we can better appreciate and respect all aspects of our country’s history. Collectively, we recognize the importance of truth and reconciliation and acknowledge that there is much more for us to know and understand. Therefore, it is our intention to have the day serve as a catalyst for continued learning and listening to Indigenous community members.

We encourage everyone to take some time to explore the rich and diverse cultures, voices, experiences and stories of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples, to reflect upon the land on which we are currently residing and farming and our relationship to the land, Indigenous community members and neighbours.


Victoria Berry, Communications
226-820-6641
vberry@gfo.ca