Two-day event brings First Nations together for sacred work of returning Ancestors

Press Release

(Caldwell First Nation, Ont.–Feb. 5, 2025) The Chiefs of Ontario and Caldwell First Nation have issued the following joint press release:

More than 100 representatives from organizations and First Nations across southern Ontario gathered in Windsor to discuss the repatriation of Ancestors and sacred items that are currently in the care of the provincial government or other institutions.

The two-day event—co-hosted by Caldwell First Nation and the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism (MCM), with the support of the Chiefs of Ontario (COO)—was designed to bring together First Nations Leadership, Knowledge Keepers, community members, archaeologists, technicians, and government representatives who are committed to ensuring cultural sovereignty and rejuvenation.

“Many First Nations from all over these lands have had their Ancestors and histories taken from them. It’s been really heartening to hear about all the important work that’s underway across this province as First Nations fight to reclaim their own stories,” said Caldwell First Nation Chief Nikki van Oirschot. “We can’t move forward in a good way until we can understand the full scope of the number, origin, and location of the Ancestors being held and by whom. Bringing our Ancestors home to their final resting place through ceremony is a crucial step in this process. The process must involve input from all First Nations in the territory.”

Representatives from a host of First Nations, including Caldwell First Nation, Bkejwanong Territory (Walpole Island First Nation), Kettle & Stony Point First Nations, Aamjiwnaang First Nation, Chippewas of the Thames First Nations, Munsee-Delaware Nation, Eelūnaapèewii Lahkèewiit, and Oneida Nation of the Thames were in attendance. Representatives from Huron-Wendat Nation were also in attendance. Participants in attendance heard from COO and MCM representatives who explained how Kee:Way, the Ontario First Nations Heritage and Burials Committee, can support First Nations seeking to bring their Ancestors home. Initially name formed as part of the Ipperwash Inquiry, Kee:Way—an Anishinaabe and Lenape word that means “bringing our Ancestors home”—offers technical and advocacy support to First Nations when requested.

Brandy George, an archaeologist and cultural advisor from Kettle Point and Stony Point First Nations and lead researcher for the Return of Ancestors initiative, has authored over 100 peer-reviewed reports detailing what is known about the Ancestors. She leans on the weight of history and the knowledge of her Ancestors to inform her work.

“Yes, I’m an archaeologist. But I’m Anishinaabe first,” she said. “We can never forget who we are or where we come from and we will continue this work until all of our Ancestors are returned to their rightful places—both in our hearts and minds and in our Nations,” George said. “It is an honour to have been entrusted with this sacred duty. I am indebted to the Knowledge Keepers and First Nations who help guide this work.”

Caldwell First Nation also took attendees on a guided tour of sacred sites in the area to demonstrate and honour the enduring presence of First Nations on the lands. Among the sacred sites visited was the Aboriginal Park burial grounds, where dozens of Ancestors were removed and sent to institutions. The site has been a point of contention for decades due to the construction of a highway, suburb and park that have been built there. Ceremony was conducted to honour those who are buried there and to ensure the attendees could visit in a good way.

Chop Waindubence, a Sheguiandah First Nation Knowledge Keeper, led many of the ceremonies throughout the two-day event. “Purpose, meaning and responsibility are associated with all our teachings. Each and every one of us have a responsibility to our Ancestors and traditions,”said Waindubence. “The government needs to move out of the way so First Nations can bring their Ancestors home on their own terms and with ceremony. We can’t repatriate in our language because it’s not a word in our language. Our words have meaning because this is who we are. Be proud of who you are. Stand up for who you are.”

The tour also went to the waterfront, where pre-contact Ancestors were recently discovered and cultural items have been found; and the Ojibway Nature Centre where a traditional meal of pickerel, wild rice, corn and stew was served. Another spot on the tour was on the banks Turkey Creek, which feeds into the Detroit River, where the remains of Ancestors and cultural items have been found.

Provincial representatives also explained their role in repatriation and how they can support First Nations through this process. However, the job of bringing ancestors home under the current framework is not easy. It can take years and require significant resources to locate the sites of Ancestors. Before those that are found on public or private lands can be returned there must be rigorous archaeological study; coordination with multiple levels of government, industry and educational institutions; and consultations with traditional Knowledge Keepers and First Nations.

But many First Nations do not have the resources to undertake this sacred work and are calling for government to step out of the process so they can repatriate their Ancestors using their own practices and protocols.

“These types of gatherings that bring together different Nations from across these lands to learn from each other, share ideas and resources, and strategize are so important,” said Chief van Oirschot. “We know that the best way to get something done is to do it ourselves. And we’re far better equipped to do that if we support each other and work in solidarity. We will all bring our Ancestors home. This weekend is just the first step in a long journey for all of us.”

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The Chiefs of Ontario support all First Nations in Ontario as they assert their sovereignty, jurisdiction and their chosen expression of nationhood. Follow Chiefs of Ontario on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram @ChiefsOfOntario.

Media Contact:

Isak Vaillancourt
Communications Manager
Chiefs of Ontario
Mobile: 416-819-8184
Email: isak.vaillancourt@coo.org

Declan Keogh
Communications Officer
Chiefs of Ontario
Mobile: 416-522-4518
Email: declan.keogh@coo.org

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