Midland and Penetanguishene commit to strengthening relationships with First Nations, Métis communities – Simcoe.com
January 4, 2023
Recent steps made by both town councils have Indigenous and Métis residents hopeful
Patricia Monague is hopeful.
Hopeful that one day all those who reside in north Simcoe, including the First Nations and Métis communities, will feel like they belong.
Monague’s hope grew Nov. 16, when she participated in Midland’s inaugural council meeting. She was invited by Mayor Bill Gordon to perform a smudging ceremony prior to the swearing in of the new council.
“Because the mayor has extended his spiritual being to include his First Nation, I feel like there is hope now,” she said.
The 58-year-old grandmother from Beausoleil First Nation said bigotry and racism exist in Midland and Penetanguishene and addressing the topic and having support from both councils could lead to a better future.
