Respectful Indigenous Representation

In 2018, the Human Rights Commissioner sent the Township of Centre Wellington a letter requesting the Township to address the use of Indigenous names, logos and images in Township facilities, by non-indigenous groups.

In response, the Township began work to ensure these elements are addressed respectfully, thoughtfully, and in a way that supports understanding and reconciliation.

As part of this work, the Township developed a Use of Indigenous-Themed Logos and Imagery Within or on Township Facilities and Properties Policy. This policy was created by the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Advisory Committee’s Indigenous Logos Working Group, in collaboration with Indigenous partners and representatives from local lacrosse organizations.

The policy allows existing lacrosse banners to be reinstalled once a Permanent Contextual Display is in place. This display is intended to provide historical and cultural context, acknowledge the origins and significance of the imagery, and outline the Township’s commitment to ongoing learning and building meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities.

The Township has been working closely with the Indigenous Logos Working Group, the Riverhawks, the Elora Hawks, Indigenous partners, and Indigenous artist Kory Parkin to develop the Permanent Contextual Display. The display, which measures approximately 19.5 feet long and 39 inches high, will be installed in the Jefferson Elora Community Centre above the doors leading from the arena pad to the lobby, adjacent to the lacrosse banners.