We acknowledge that we are living and stewarding and harvesting on aboriginal land that has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples from the beginning. In particular, we acknowledge our local Algonquin territory of Pikwakanagan.
As settlers, we’re grateful for all the generations of people who have taken care of this land—for thousands of years. Long before today, as we plant here, there have been aboriginal peoples who have been the stewards of this place, meeting in circles such as ours with the focus on living a meaningful, truthful, and co-operative life. We recognize and deeply appreciate their contribution in shaping and strengthening this community in particular, and our province and country as a whole. We are committed in a real way to shining light on the promise and the challenge of Truth and Reconciliation.
Algonquin Spiritual Elder Grandfather William Commanda enjoyed Sacred Blend tea and would say with a smile “that’s really good tea.” In his generosity, he offered this quote to put into the tea boxes: “We must come together with one heart, one mind, and one determination, and respect mother earth.”