Algonquin Flags Raised at Rogers Centre Ottawa in Historic Ceremony Honouring the Original Stewards of the Land

A powerful new symbol of recognition and reconciliation now stands proudly at Rogers Centre Ottawa, where the flags of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation and the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council were officially raised during a special ceremony recognizing the enduring presence, rights, and culture of the Algonquin Anishinabeg people.

The ceremony brought together leadership and community members from both Algonquin Nations alongside representatives from Rogers Centre Ottawa for a meaningful moment of reflection, respect, and renewed commitment to reconciliation.

Situated on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabeg people, Rogers Centre Ottawa acknowledged its responsibility to foster meaningful relationships with Indigenous communities while ensuring their history, culture, and continued presence are visibly recognized in Canada's capital.

The flag raising builds upon ongoing reconciliation efforts and reflects a growing commitment to recognizing the Algonquin people as the original stewards of the lands where Ottawa now stands. It also follows the City of Ottawa's historic 2018 decision to permanently raise the flags of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation and the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council at City Hall on National Indigenous Peoples Day.

Now flying prominently along the Rideau Canal, the Algonquin flags serve as a visible reminder of the historic and contemporary presence of the Algonquin Anishinabeg people. They stand as symbols of recognition, education, mutual respect, and the importance of nation-to-nation relationships between Indigenous communities and public institutions.

Rogers Centre Ottawa has also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing its work with Indigenous partners to identify opportunities for collaboration, education, and inclusive representation throughout its operations.

"Today's flag raising is an important step in recognizing the Algonquin Anishinabeg people as the original caretakers of this land. We are proud to honour their history, culture, and continued contributions, and we remain committed to building meaningful relationships rooted in respect and reconciliation."

Lesley Pincombe
President & CEO
Rogers Centre Ottawa

"The raising of the Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation and the Algonquin Anishinabeg Nation Tribal Council flags is a powerful symbol of recognition, respect, and the enduring presence of our people in our traditional territory. It is an opportunity to celebrate our history, honour our ancestors, and recognize the strength and resilience of our Nation as we continue to build a brighter future for generations to come. We look forward to and are proud to be the Host Nation for this year's Assembly of First Nations Annual General Assembly in Ottawa."

Chief Greg Sarazin
Algonquins of Pikwakanagan First Nation