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Original artwork by Anishinaabe artist Sharifah Marsden

Yesterday, the Town of Ajax recognized the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR) with a special community gathering at Rotary Park for the ceremonial unveiling of the new Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan bridge sign. Featuring original artwork by Anishinaabe artist Sharifah Marsden, the sign reflects the Town’s commitment to honouring Indigenous culture, history and reconciliation.

Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan, an Anishinaabemowin name meaning “Bridge at the lakeshore,” was brought forward as the Indigenous name for the bridge at Rotary Park through a formal naming process led by Minogi, the consultation arm of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and Hiawatha First Nation. Minogi guided the Town through the process on behalf of MSIFN, helping to ensure the name reflected Anishinaabemowin language and knowledge, as well as the relationship of the Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg to the Lands and Waters of the area.

Rooted in community learning, reflection and healing, the evening ceremony brought community together for the ceremonial unveiling of the commemorative sign, with drumming and singing led by Ashayung (Matthew Stevens) of Georgina Island First Nation, followed by a candlelight vigil led by Indigenous Healer Grey Cloud (James Carpenter) to honour Survivors, families and Indigenous communities impacted by the Residential School System and colonization.

QUOTES

“On the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Ajax Council was honoured to ceremonially recognize the commemorative naming of the bridge at Rotary Park as Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan and unveil its new sign, featuring original artwork by Anishinaabe artist Sharifah Marsden. Council’s endorsement of this commemorative renaming reflects our commitment to recognizing and celebrating Indigenous history, presence, culture, and contributions in our community. On behalf of Ajax Council, thank you to everyone who joined us for this meaningful evening of reflection, learning and community.” – Shaun Collier, Mayor and CEO, Town of Ajax

“It’s essential in today’s world to incorporate Indigenous art into public space. It creates a visual representation of Indigenous culture and shares our teachings. We are connection to the land, the plants, the animals, the water and to each other. This is reflected in our traditional artwork.” – Anishinaabe artist, Sharifah Marsden

“For Anishinaabe Peoples, language (Anishinaabemowin) carries Teachings and ways of understanding the Lands that cannot be separated from the places and relationships from which they emerge. Elder Tom Cowie has taught me that to speak Anishinaabemowin means to hear the ways in which the Lands and All of our Relations speak to us. The Town of Ajax centring Michi Saagiig language and art in the commemoration for National Truth and Reconciliation at Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan creates an opportunity to recognize Anishinaabeg presence not only as part of the past, but as living, evolving, and continuing on these Lands. Together, they can help tell a story that honours Treaty relationships and celebrates Indigenous voices, knowledges, and creativity.” – Kelsey Watt, Arts, Culture and Guardians Coordinator (Minogi/Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation)

QUICK FACTS

  • The Town proudly proclaimed Wednesday, September 30, 2026, as the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and welcomed community members to honour Survivors, remember the children who never returned home and reflect on our shared responsibility to advance reconciliation.
  • Ajax Council endorsed the commemorative naming of the bridge at Rotary Park to Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan at the June 22, 2026 Council meeting.
  • In English, Zhaagawaamikong means “at the shore/on the lakeshore” and Aazhokigan means “bridge.” Together, Zhaagawaamikong Aazhokigan translates to “Bridge at the lakeshore”.
  • The naming recognizes the longstanding and continuing presence of Indigenous Peoples and their relationships with the Lands, Waters and Air of this place.
  • Central to Sharifah Marsden’s vision is the inclusion of images of Indigenous people, women and children in public art and contemporary landscapes, creating visibility, fostering inclusion and uplifting community.
  • Minogi is the consultation arm of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, supporting consultation, relationship building and engagement on matters affecting the Nation’s rights, interests, Lands and Waters.
  • In consultation with the Indigenous Advisory Circle (IAC), staff selected Rotary Park Bridge as the asset for commemorative naming. Commemorative naming refers to a name assigned to a municipal park, building, structure or asset to honour individuals, events, or groups for their historical, cultural, or social significance, in addition to its existing name.
  • The event included a candlelight vigil led by Indigenous Healer Grey Cloud (James Carpenter) to honour Survivors, families and Indigenous communities impacted by colonization and the Canadian residential school system.
  • This gathering was designed to engage both Indigenous and non-Indigenous residents across Durham Region in meaningful dialogue, cultural exchange and allyship. It is gatherings like this that are a call to action for residents and municipal leaders alike to uphold their responsibilities in advancing the 94 Calls to Action outlined by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, particularly those that pertain to municipal governance, education and community engagement.

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