In keeping with the Town of Lanigan’s Diversity and Inclusion policy, we want to recognize that September is the month for Truth and Reconciliation. During the month of September, we will be flying the flag for Truth and Reconciliation outside the Town of Lanigan office. 

I would like to begin by acknowledging we are on treaty land, referred to as Treaty 4 Territory and that Lanigan and all the people here are beneficiaries of this treaty. Treaty 4 encompasses the lands of the Cree, Saulteaux (So-Toe), Dakota, Nakota, Lakota and on the homeland of the Metis. We respect and honour the Treaties, we acknowledge the harms and mistakes of the past, and we are committed to move forward in partnership with Indigenous Nations in the spirit of reconciliation and collaboration. We are all treaty people.

As a Board Member for the S 4-6, which stands for Sylvite 4-6, I am part of a regional group formed from communities, First Nations and RMs within a 90km radius of the BHP mine site. The purpose of the S 4-6 is for all of us within the region to work together and collaborate on how we prepare for the influx of people to the region.

Being part of this Board has enabled me to interact with members of Fishing Lake First Nation, Muskowekwan First Nation, Day Star First Nation, and Medicine Rope Strategies. I have learned a lot of things about the culture of First Nations. Some things I have learned include the significance of hair to First Nations people and why they have long hair. It symbolizes a connection to the land, ancestors and personal energy while also representing strength, identity and spirit. Seeing the last residential school close in the province in 1998 on Muskowekwan First Nation, I had no idea that residential schools were still around in the 90’s. Walking around in it really gave me perspective on what First Nations people went through. This area will be turned into a historic site so we don’t forget that there were residential schools. Another thing I learned was the importance of tobacco. For centuries tobacco has been a sacred plant, symbolizing life, prayer and connection. These are just a sample of what I have learned and I feel this is a big part of reconciliation - learning about the Indigenous culture.

I want to close with something Brent Sunshine from Fishing Lake First Nation shared. He said that the reason “First Nations people don’t look at you when you are talking to them is because they listen with their heart.” 

I feel the world would be a better place if we all listened with our heart, instead of being quick to judge what we don’t understand!

Kind Regards,

- Mayor Tony Mycock