Today marks the 250 year anniversary of the signing of the British Royal Proclamation, 1763, an historic document that legally mandated Canada to recognize Indigenous land rights. Fittingly, it is also the first day of the official visit to Canada of UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Professor James Anaya, to examine the human rights situation of the Indigenous peoples. The main theme for October 7 is “We Have the Right To Say NO.” INM wants Canada to follow the necessity of free and prior informed consent before developing Indigenous lands. It is only First Nations who have a right to decide what happens in their territories.

Join INM at the opening of Trinity Bellwoods Park where there is a map of Garrison Creek, drawing attention to the Indigenous histories of Toronto – our old waterways – which have been buried in our sewers. Scheduled events include:

5 pm – meet at SE corner of Trinity Bellwood Park.
We will potluck picnic until 6:15 with speeches and music.
Music by Matty Powell, Mama D
Speeches by Tantoo Cardinal, Aaron Detlor, Judy Rebick and more
Spoken WOrd by Billie Jo Tobabadung, Jamaias Da Costa, Phil Cote
6:15 We will parade with big puppets…bring your own costumes if you like! The route is across Dundas to Bay ST.
7pm – Ryerson Nation to Nation talks (Dundas and Bay)
Dr. Pam Palmater, Chair, Centre for Indigenous Governance, Ryerson University
Alanis Obomsawin, Documentary filmmaker,
Josh Kendrick, Youth artist from Neskantaga First Nation