The Caldwell First Nation flag flies in Kingsville to acknowledge National Indigenous Peoples Day, which falls every year on June 21, and is also the day of the summer solstice, a deeply culturally significant day for Indigenous communities across Canada.

Members of Kingsville Council were joined by members of Caldwell First Nation Council: Chief van Oirschot and Councilor DeGraw. Other notable members in attendance to observe the flag raising included County of Essex Warden Hilda MacDonald and Town of Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy.

Mayor Rogers presented a tobacco offering to Chief van Oirschot and Councilor DeGraw, a custom used by Aboriginal people for centuries in exchange for their presence, before Chief van Oirschot and Mayor Rogers gave remarks.

“Today is about recognition, it’s about acknowledging the history, presence, and resilience of First Nation people, our people, and the important role we continue to play in the life of this region. Acts like this help bring truth to light and demonstrate what reconciliation and action can look like,” said Chief van Oirschot.

“Today’s ceremony symbolizes the Town’s commitment to meaningful partnership with local First Nations communities through our pursuit of understanding, truth, and reconciliation,” said Mayor Rogers.

The flag can be seen at the Kingsville Recreation Complex, 1741 Jasperson Drive.