On August 3rd, we had a social media post recognizing the anniversary of the signing of Treaty 1 at Lower Fort Garry in 1871. This historic nation-to-nation agreement was signed between the Crown and the Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) and Swampy Cree Peoples, represented by the seven original First Nation signatories: Brokenhead Ojibway Nation, Black River First Nation, Long Plain First Nation, Peguis First Nation, Roseau River Anishinaabe First Nation, Sandy Bay Ojibway First Nation, and Swan Lake First Nation.
Treaty 1 outlined commitments including the allocation of reserve lands, annual annuity payments (initially $3 per person and later increased to $5), clothing, and agricultural implements. While the Crown understood the treaty as a surrender of land to support westward expansion, First Nations understood it as a sacred agreement based on sharing, mutual respect, and ongoing responsibilities. The treaty relationship was meant to endure “as long as the sun shines, the grass grows and the river flows.”
As we continue the journey of reconciliation, every day is an opportunity to reflect on the history and ongoing significance of Treaty 1 here in Manitoba and honour the commitments made, and strengthen our collective responsibility to build respectful nation-to-nation relationships rooted in truth, understanding, and shared care for the land.
The Circle Bed of Flowers was created in 2021 as a living memorial to the children who never returned home from residential schools. In the years since, it has remained a place of remembrance, reflection, and community care, honouring the lives and spirits of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis children and recognizing the lasting impacts of the residential school system.
As investigations into unmarked graves and burial sites continue across Canada, the garden reminds us that remembrance is an ongoing act. Planted and cared for by Circles for Reconciliation staff, volunteers, and neighbours, the Circle Bed of Flowers reflects a shared commitment to truth, healing, and reconciliation.
In 2026, the garden continues to serve as a living reminder of the children who never returned home and the importance of remembering their lives and stories. Every flower represents care and remembrance, while the stone marked “the sacred ones” in Dakota honours the children at the heart of this memorial. Let the Circle Bed of Flowers inspire us to continue to take action toward reconciliation; to learn the truth, honour Indigenous voices and experiences, build meaningful relationships, and commit to creating a more respectful and equitable future together.
Circle Bed of Flowers
What we do
The aim of Circles for Reconciliation is to establish trusting, meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples as part of the 94 Calls to Action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC).
The means to achieve this is the creation of small gatherings of an equal number of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people in discussion circles.
Every Circle needs five Indigenous and five non-Indigenous participants. Relationships are built by equal voices.
How we do it
- Each group of ten participants, led by two trained facilitators, meets weekly or biweekly for seven gatherings 90 minutes in length.
- These seven meetings allow for the beginnings of respectful relationships, which the TRC stresses is the basis of reconciliation.
- The participants sit in a circle, providing greater opportunities for sharing and being respectful of traditional Indigenous values and customs.
- Themes for each Circle continue to be developed and, where necessary, are being adapted to different Indigenous customs and practices across Canada.