Abrigo Centre is located within the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishinaabeg, the Haudenosaunee, the Chippewa, and Wendat peoples. Tkaronto, a Mohawk word meaning “the place in the water where the trees are standing,” has long been and continues to be a gathering place for multiple nations, reflecting the enduring relationships that Indigenous communities have with this land. Now governed by Treaty #13, the Toronto Purchase, this land is also a part of the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Belt Covenant, a commitment to sharing, caring for, and maintaining peace with the land and its resources.

As a social services agency, we are committed to supporting the implementation of the 94 Calls to Action as they correspond to the services we provide— including issues of justice, health, education, and reconciliation. We acknowledge that Indigenous women, girls, and Two-Spirit people continue to face disproportionately high rates of violence. We are committed to continuous learning and unlearning in our work, and value Indigenous knowledge, beliefs, and ways of being in our service provision.

We also acknowledge that as settlers and uninvited guests upon this land, we benefit from the colonial project, both within and beyond Turtle Island. As a Portuguese-speaking agency, we reflect on our role in supporting communities affected by migration, displacement, and colonization. This includes recognizing the diverse populations we serve and the interconnectedness in their struggles, particularly those who were forcibly brought to this territory, their descendants, and the enduring effects of slavery, racial segregation, and marginalization. Additionally, we recognize the continuous harm experienced by those who were subjected to Portuguese colonization, and we engage in our services with empathy, respect, sensitivity, and a commitment to reduce harm.

Tkaronto is rich in stories, beliefs, culture, and ways of being. Within this richness, we must honor the lived experiences of the many communities that shape this land, including recognizing the ongoing contributions of Indigenous, Black, and migrant communities who strengthen the city with their resilience.

This land acknowledgment is a living document, reflecting our commitment to reconciliation and justice. As an agency dedicated to community development and healing, we challenge our complicity in the harmful legacy perpetuated by social services in ways that amplify Indigenous and Black resistance and excellence.

Our work must be grounded in Anti-Oppressive practice that understands the histories and lived realities of those we serve — and we will continue to approach our work with sensitivity, humility, and respect.