Item - 2017.AA7.5

The Aboriginal Affairs Committee recommends to the Executive Committee that:

1. The item be forwarded to City Council without recommendation.

2. The General Manager, Economic Development and Culture and the Director, Equity, Diversity and Human Rights report directly to City Council with further details of the implementation plan.

Gina Doxtator, Senior Director of Partnerships, Reconciliation Canada gave a presentation to the Aboriginal Affairs Committee.

In September 2017, at least 50,000 participants are expected to take part in the Walk for Reconciliation in Toronto - an inclusive special event celebrating Canadians' shared commitment to transform and renew relationships among Indigenous peoples and all communities across the country. Organized by Reconciliation Canada, an Indigenous-led charitable organization, the event will consist of a 4-kilometre walk through Toronto's downtown core, and will also feature an opening ceremony, keynote addresses, cultural performances, a food market, community partner activations, and more.

The Walk is a key component of Reconciliation Canada's "Reconciliation in Action: A National Engagement Strategy", which has been recognized by the Department of Canadian Heritage as a Canada 150 Signature Initiative. As the nation marks the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Walk presents a unique opportunity to reflect, and to celebrate a new way forward for the next 150 years.

This report recommends allocating a grant of $500,000 to Reconciliation Canada in support of the 2017 Walk for Reconciliation. Funding for this grant will be drawn in full from the Major Special Events Reserve Fund, and is subject to the conditions outlined below. This financial support will contribute to local community engagement and outreach, as well as event production, while supporting the objectives of the City of Toronto Bidding and Hosting Strategy for Significant Special Events, and the fulfillment of key Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.