The Town of Ajax marked the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation with a community gathering at Rotary Park, where the newly named Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan bridge sign was ceremonially unveiled.
The sign features original artwork by Anishinaabe artist Sharifah Marsden. According to the Town, it reflects Ajax's commitment to honouring Indigenous culture, history and reconciliation.
Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan is an Anishinaabemowin name meaning "Bridge at the lakeshore." It was brought forward through a formal naming process led by Minogi, the consultation arm of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and Hiawatha First Nation.
Minogi guided the Town through the process on behalf of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, helping to ensure the name reflected Anishinaabemowin language and knowledge, as well as the relationship of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg to the Lands and Waters of the area.
The evening ceremony brought residents together for reflection, learning and healing. It included drumming and singing led by Ashayung (Matthew Stevens) of Georgina Island First Nation, followed by a candlelight vigil led by Indigenous Healer Grey Cloud (James Carpenter) to honour Survivors, families and Indigenous communities impacted by the Residential School System and colonization.
"On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Ajax Council was honoured to ceremonially recognize the commemorative naming of the bridge at Rotary Park as Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan and unveil its new sign, featuring original artwork by Anishinaabe artist Sharifah Marsden. Council's endorsement of this commemorative renaming reflects our commitment to recognizing and celebrating Indigenous history, presence, culture, and contributions in our community. On behalf of Ajax Council, thank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful evening of reflection, learning and community." — Shaun Collier, Mayor and CEO, Town of Ajax, in a Town of Ajax news release
Marsden said incorporating Indigenous art into public spaces is essential.
"It's essential in today's world to incorporate Indigenous art into public space. It creates a visual representation of Indigenous culture and shares our teachings. We are connection to the land, the plants, the animals, the water and to each other. This is reflected in our traditional artwork." — Sharifah Marsden, Anishinaabe artist, in a Town of Ajax news release
Kelsey Watt, Arts, Culture and Guardians Coordinator with Minogi and the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, said Anishinaabemowin carries Teachings and ways of understanding the Lands that cannot be separated from the places and relationships from which they emerge.
"The Town of Ajax centring Michi Saagiig language and art in the commemoration for National Truth and Reconciliation at Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan creates an opportunity to recognize Anishinaabeg presence not only as part of the past, but as living, evolving, and continuing on these Lands. Together, they can help tell a story that honours Treaty relationships and celebrates Indigenous voices, knowledges, and creativity." — Kelsey Watt, in a Town of Ajax news release
The unveiling at Rotary Park is part of Ajax's broader recognition of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, which honours Survivors, their families and communities affected by the Residential School System.
