This article was previously published on EloraFergusToday.
CENTRE WELLINGTON – When banners return to the Jefferson Elora Community Centre, those with Indigenous-themed sports logos or names will not be included.
Councillors unanimously approved staff recommendations to re-install banners at the Jefferson Elora Community Centre (JECC), exclusive of banners displaying Indigenous-themed logos or names until a relevant policy is implemented until they can ensure the best way to "remain respectful" and "oppose any discriminatory actions" happening in "any area" of the community.
The township began developing a policy in 2019 after receiving a letter from the Ontario Human Rights Commission urging the township to develop a policy on using Indigenous-themed logos and names in sports facilities and arenas.
Staff have since said JECC facility users are showing "a desire" to reinstall banners at the facility after renovations led to their removal.
"Change like this is never going to be easy. We understand that the learning process is a challenge for all of us but I also want to say that I know that times have changed," said Coun. Barb Evoy. "We are getting to this new place where we need to honour the truths that are the reality for some of our neighbours. So I look forward to seeing a development of something."
Speaking on Indigenous people's special relationship with lacrosse or "the Creator's Game," Adams asked that staff continue updating CW Connect about the project to build awareness.
When asked for an approximate deadline on the final policy, staff said they try not to "set specific timelines" with this type of work.
"Sometimes it's easy to take the easy route, take down the banners and take everything down...but it takes more of an effort to listen and learn and make sure that that history isn't lost," said Coun. Jennifer Adams.
The Elora Mohawks Junior B. Lacrosse Club is the sole non-Indigenous team using the JECC as a home base that currently sports and Indigenous name and logo.
The Elora Mohawks did not respond immediately to previous requests for comment on the new recommendations.
Staff said the project has cost the township $3,000 in consultants to date and Grandmother's Voice will receive an honorarium in the range of $200-$400 for their work consulting on the project.
Isabel Buckmaster is the Local Journalism Initiative reporter for GuelphToday. LJI is a federally-funded program.
