Historic Friendship Accord Signed Between Saugeen First Nation & Saugeen Shores
By: Claire McCormack
In an historic moment, the Town of Saugeen Shores and Saugeen First Nation have signed their first ever Friendship Accord.
It’s called Wiijkiwenydiwaad Miinwa Zgaabiignigan, meaning “Friends with one another and we are connected.”
It symbolizes a commitment between the Town and the First Nation to talk together in partnership, fostering collaboration that honours the past, strengthens the communities, and nurtures a prosperous future for the region as a whole.
Saugeen First Nation Chief Conrad Ritchie tells Bayshore Broadcasting News, “I think it just lays the blueprint for our children. Something to follow and for our communities to follow and I think that’s just our responsibility as leaders from our communities to showcase and set that precedent for our young people to follow.”
He adds, “For far too long people have been working from segregation and isolation and when there’s segregation and isolation, that’s what breeds sickness in people because as human beings we’re wired for connection with each other. Part of it is closing that gap of our communities and showing that, for both of our communities to follow that.”
Saugeen Shores Mayor Luke Charbonneau, says, “Saugeen Shores is proud and excited to come together with Saugeen First Nation in the spirit of friendship, collaboration, and mutual respect,” adding, “The signing of this Friendship Accord marks the beginning of a stronger partnership that will bring shared opportunities and lasting benefits for both our communities.”
Chief Ritchie adds, “It is with great pride and optimism that we join hands with Saugeen Shores in signing this Friendship Accord,” adding, “This agreement represents our commitment to moving forward together, honouring our heritage, and creating a future that benefits all our people. By working together, we can achieve remarkable things and continue to foster a spirit of unity and respect. Wiijkiwenydiwaad Miinwa Zgaabiignigan – Friends with one another and we are connected.”
The accord sets out a vision, guiding principles, process, and key areas of mutual interest including increasing connection, tourism, building complete communities and business development.
The vision is based on the seven grandfather teachings of love, respect, bravery, truth, honesty, humility and wisdom.
The guiding principles recognize building stronger government to government relationships can help create certainty for both communities and their well-being.
The process includes an annual meeting of both council to consult on issues of joint interest.
The signing ceremony was part of graduation celebration from the First Nation-Municipal Community Economic Development Initiative (CEDI). Saugeen First Nation and the Town joined CEDI, which is a program by Cando and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities back in 2022.
The program involves meetings and workshops and offers tools for relationship and capacity building. Its aim is to help communities develop joint economic development plans, strengthen partnerships, and improve regional quality of life.
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