NEW CREDIT – An accord years in the making was signed and finalized at a historical ceremony on Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation territory last Saturday.
The signing of the Mississauga accord, held at the community hall in New Credit October 29, symbolizes a historical relationship between all six Mississauga First Nations. The six Mississauga First Nations include: Alderville First Nation, Curve Lake First Nation, Hiawatha First Nation, Mississauga 8 First Nation, Mississaugas of the New Credit First Nation, and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation.
Hosting the event on New Credit territory, Chief R. Stacey Laforme invited the two Mississauga female chiefs, Phyllis Wiliams and Kelly LaRocca to speak first before the men out of respect.
“The signing accomplishes a sense of relationship — it validates our relationship,” said Chief of Curve Lake First Nation Phyllis Williams. “Previously we’ve remained spread around the province, this enables us to come together at any given time. It solidifies us.”
Williams was joined at the podium by several guest speakers and each Mississauga chief or elected chief, each sharing with the audience their enthusiasm and appreciation for the relationship accord.
“Our ancestors and leaders before us didn’t need this agreement in written form — it was always there,” said Williams. “We shouldn’t, and don’t, need it either it that sense, but having it down it writing helps solidify our relationship and encourage others around us to understand it’s importance.”
Williams said that she felt chills when she signed the accord and witnessed her fellow chiefs following suit.
“We already have begun talking about economic development and a number of other issues within our communities. We are tasked with so many different forms of developing and maintaining good employment and education on our territories. We certainly want a good future for our children because they will be serving at the table soon after us and we all want to instill a sense of responsibility in our young people.”
Williams brought her youth committee to the accord signing specifically with that in mind.
“That’s why I brought my youth with me. To have that blend of youth and elders,” said Williams.”They have the chance to seek advice from the elders here in attendance today right at this historical event.”
Curve Lake First Nation is a four-hour drive from New Credit First Nation.
“So many people came out today, this historical day that is taking place right on our own Mississauga territory,” said Williams.
