Oneida and London council meet for first time in 150 years [Video]

The first joint meeting by the elected councils of the City of London and Oneida Nation of the Thames saw the long-time neighbouring communities take a collaborative step forward.

After a shared meal and introductions, Chief Todd Cornelius formally welcomed city councillors and civic administration to the First Nation.

“Let’s seize this opportunity to lay the groundwork for cooperation, understanding, and mutual respect,” he told the elected leaders who sat together around a horseshoe shaped table inside the Oneida Community Centre.

London Mayor Josh Morgan began his greeting in the traditional language of the Oneida Nation, having recently received lessons from an elder.

“It’s about forging a new partnership together in collaboration, and as the Chief said, it won’t be another 150 years until we meet again,” Morgan added in English.

The mayor then presented a traditional gift of tobacco and white pine sapling which represents peace.

Cornelius presented a …