London City Council and Oneida Nation of the Thames Elected Chief and Council will be holding their first official Council to Council meeting later this week.
On Wednesday, April 17 the two Councils will meet to discuss shared interests and explore opportunities that will benefit both communities.
The meeting marks the first time both Councils will meet for an official Council to Council meeting. This meeting is the initial step towards building a meaningful relationship that is built on mutual respect and reciprocity.
Through meaningful dialogue and collaboration, we are building a foundation for the prosperity of future generations, which marks a step forward on the Oneida Nation and the City of London’s path towards reconciliation.
On the meeting agenda are shared environmental concerns, housing initiatives for members of the Oneida Nation that reside in the City of London and exploring collaborative communication efforts to the Ministry of Municipal Affairs to request changes to the Municipal Act, 2001 to facilitate meetings between First Nations and municipalities so that relationship building can continue. The full meeting agenda is available at london.ca.
The meeting is set to take place on Wednesday, April 17 beginning at 5 p.m. at Oneida Community Centre, 2017 Ball Park Rd, Southwold, Ontario. Members of the public are invited to view the live stream of this inaugural Council to Council meeting on YouTube.
"By working together with openness, mutual respect, and a shared sense of purpose, we can overcome challenges and build stronger, prosperous communities," stated Chief Todd Cornelius of the Oneida Nation of the Thames.
“The City of London, and members of Council are deeply committed to truth and reconciliation and fostering meaningful dialogue with Indigenous partners, including Oneida Nation of the Thames,” says London Mayor Josh Morgan. “This inaugural Council to Council meeting signifies a pivotal step towards building enduring relationships and open channels of communication, and transforming intentions into meaningful outcomes. This meeting represents our commitment to honour the past, strengthen the present, and build a better future together.”
About Oneida Nation Council
Oneida Nation Council are the representatives elected to serve the needs of Oneida Nation of the Thames community members. Oneida Nation Council provides community leadership and political direction for Oneida Nation of the Thames, actively participating in lobbying efforts and fostering progressive relationships with the Government of Canada and Canadian business and industry.
About London City Council
London City Council are the officials elected to represent Londoners and to consider the well-being and interests of the municipality, guided by a mission of improving quality of life and building a strong and vibrant community through bold, proactive, and accountable City service. London City Council is comprised of one Mayor, and one Councillor elected to represent each of the City's 14 wards.