The Official Dedication of the Aboriginal Languages Plaques

Nov. 7, 1992 dedication of the first 24 Aboriginal languages plaques at the Human Rights Monument.

The dedication of the first 24 carved granite plaques -of a final 73- took place at the Human Rights Monument. Each of these plaques carries in the languages of those Aboriginal peoples of Canada, the expression of “Equality,” “Dignity,” and “Rights.” The granite inscribed statements are found in the core of the monumental sculpture, called the “House of Canada.”

View photographs of the event

The Amikoonsuk Singers with drumming brought the audience to attention. Claudette Command Cote, grand-daughter of Kitigan Zipi elder Chief William Commanda of the Algonquin people, led with an invocation to the Great Spirit to bless the event. Elder Earnest Benedict from Akwesasne solemnly performed a sweet grass ceremonial blessing of each plaque.

The ceremony over, the celebration moved inside City Hall; First Nation dancers from the Odawa Friendship Centre, singing, stimulating speeches, and a joyful presentation of the small business arts of local First Nations people - in truth, a joyful powwow rounded out the celebration.

A further element in this major presentation of First Nations’ cultural expression was the premier showing by the CRB Foundation of their television program episode telling of the “The Peacemaker” ceremony of the Mohawk people. This TV episode was part of the Foundation’s series of “Minutes” of Canada’s history. Present was Michael Doxtater from the Six Nations Centre in Ohsweken, Ontario.

The following images are from the dedication event.