While challenges still remain, Alderville First Nation Chief Dave Mowat said he believes the public is more open to learning more about First Nations’ history. 

Alderville First Nation is located north of Cobourg, and Mowat said he's seen the education process grow. 

“I think, generally, on the ground there’s a lot of interest in First Nations communities. I make a fair number of presentations to various groups and there is a real, genuine willingness to learn," Mowat said. "You’re always going to have people that don’t agree or don’t care and that’s just the way it is, that’s human nature, but from my experience there’s a much stronger willingness on the part of the general population to understand facets of our history.”

June is National Indigenous History Month and today is National Indigenous Peoples Day, but Mowat said it’s not about one day or one month. The chief suggests that anyone from the general public wanting to show support should seek out credible sources of information to learn about treaties.

“Treaty is what built the country. It was through the treaty process that Canada was able to become what it is and it’s a troubled history, so it would benefit any and all people to learn about the treaty process, where it’s rooted. It’s not dusty old history because it’s still playing out to this day,” Mowat said. 

“We have our challenges with the school curriculum and we have challenges with government even - there’s a mindset there that still is unaccepting of our history and our place in this country," Mowat added. "So it’s through education that I always point people towards to gain better insight as to some of the challenges and where some of these claims come from. We don’t just dream up these things. They come from a credible source and they come from a history of the community that was maybe unresolved in certain cases.” 

Mowat said he gives presentations throughout the year and people seek information throughout the year. He said he is always happy to discuss First Nations history or assist someone find good resources to learn more. To learn more, contact him at Alderville First Nation.

Listen here for the full interview with the chief, including what’s new in Alderville and about his music: