Algonquin Nation in present day Ontario, Canada
Tanakiwin - country, homeland for Ontario Algonquins
»  Algonquin Presence in the Ottawa Valley
woven repeating triangular pattern
John Baptiste Desfonds on Baptiste Lake around 1910 holding a rifle and smoking a pipe

The Algonquin Presence in the Kitchissippi (Ottawa) Valley

In July 2009, the AOO, Canada and Ontario entered into a Consultation Process Interim Measures Agreement. This Agreement sets out a one window approach for Canada and Ontario to consult with the Algonquins of Ontario on proposed activities or projects in Algonquin Territory while our negotiations are ongoing. The Algonquins of Ontario Consultation Office in Pembroke serves as this one window. Since 2006, over 450 consultation requests have been received and over 200 files are active at this time.

This Consultation Process Interim Measures Agreement and the Consultation Office are providing the AOO with an unparalleled opportunity to express the interests of the AOO in relation to virtually every public sector development in the Settlement Area. This has led to the AOO being recognized as a key participant in the development of lands, resources and public policy throughout the Settlement Area.

While our negotiations move forward, a number of very exciting initiatives are also taking shape and serve to:

  • Enhance Algonquin presence and influence for land development and major infrastructure activities in Algonquin Traditional Territory
  • Strengthen relationships with municipalities and other government agencies
  • Establish Algonquin credentials as strong players in the social, economic and political fabric of eastern Ontario and Canada
Some of these exciting initiatives include:

The Ottawa Light Rail Transit (OLRT) project has gained considerable momentum as the proposed LeBreton Flats Transit Station has been identified as an "Algonquin themed" station. The location of this station is of particular significance to the Algonquins as it is within close proximity to Chaudière Falls and Victoria Island, both of which are sacred gathering places for the Algonquins since time immemorial. The Calls are now open to all Algonquin artists and artist teams who are encouraged to submit their qualifications by Thursday, January 17, 2013. Learn more.

Ottawa City Council is committed to integrating Algonquin history, culture and arts into the Lansdowne Revitalization Project through specific Algonquin interpretive elements including, way-finding based on the four colours, an Ethno-Botanical Garden, a Teaching Circle, plantings of trees of significance to Algonquin culture, and Algonquin Art Commissions.

A Mineral Exploration and Development Protocol Agreement between the AOO and the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines, and first of its kind in the province, that sets out guidelines for mineral exploration within the Algonquin Settlement Area.

The completion of an AOO position paper entitled Returning the Kichisippi Pimisi, the American Eel, to the Ottawa River Basin. The American Eel is considered sacred to the Algonquins and has been an essential part of the Algonquin culture for thousands of years. The eel is a model of strength and adaptability, living in harmony with its surroundings. It is vitally important that we serve as the voice of the eel to ensure its survival. An electronic copy of the report is available here.

The CFB Rockcliffe Participation Agreement, executed between the AOO and the Canada Lands Company in 2010, and in the process of being implemented. CFB Rockcliffe was originally established by the Department of Defence in 1898. The base was once home to over 450 military families, but since 1994 has been decommissioned. Through this agreement, the AOO has a direct financial interest in the development of one of the most desirable and valuable parcels of development land in Canada. Learn more.

Efforts to build and strengthen relationships with Parks Canada and the National Capital Commission are moving forward through a number of projects including the Rideau Canal Promenade and the Interprovincial Bridge as well as the exploration of various federal real estate opportunities. Learn more about the AOO participation in the Interprovincial Crossings Environmental Assessment Study here.

Another step forward in our journey to bring visibility to the Algonquins and our language is through municipal street naming. The AOO have been approached by a few municipalities to work together to identify Algonquin words and names that could be used and locations where these names might be appropriate. The municipality would then work with developers to promote the use of these words for street names in new subdivisions or other developments.

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