Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

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The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward

Agenda

Special Council Tuesday, November 17, 2020 @ 6:00 PM Virtual via Zoom

This meeting will be live streamed, recorded and available on the internet by visiting the County's website at www.thecounty.ca

Page

1. CALL TO ORDER

1.1 Due to COVID-19, the meeting will be held in a physically distant manner. The public is able to follow and participate in the meeting electronically. Members of the public who wish to provide comments under Section 6 of agenda "Comments from the Audience" can do so by contacting [email protected] by noon on Monday, November 16 to register.

2. TRADITIONAL LAND ACKNOWLEDGEMENT STATEMENT

3. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA

3.1 Motion to Confirm Agenda

THAT the Agenda for the Special Council meeting of November 17, 2020 be confirmed.

4. DISCLOSURE OF PECUNIARY INTEREST AND THE GENERAL NATURE THEREOF

5. DEPUTATIONS

6 - 8 5.1 Brian Barber to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Brian Barber regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

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9 5.2 Bruce Pardy to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Bruce Pardy regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

10 - 14 5.3 David MacKinnon to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by David MacKinnon regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

15 - 17 5.4 Former Mayor Leo Finnegan to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Former Mayor Leo Finnegan regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

18 - 20 5.5 Gord Fox to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Gord Fox regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

21 - 50 5.6 Greg Piasetzki to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Greg Piasetzki regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

51 - 54 5.7 Ian Inrig to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Ian Inrig regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

55 - 61 5.8 Marilyn Warrick to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Marilyn Warrick regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

62 - 63 5.9 Patrice Dutil to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Patrice Dutil regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

64 - 74 5.10 Paul Allen to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir

Page 2 of 273 John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Paul Allen regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

75 - 78 5.11 Richard Jones to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Richard Jones regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

79 - 81 5.12 Shannon Helm to address Council regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

THAT the deputation by Shannon Helm regarding the future of the 'Holding Court' Sir John A. Macdonald Statue be received. Deputation

6. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE (ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA)

7. ITEMS FOR CONSIDERATION

82 - 271 7.1 Report of the Community Services, Programs and Initiatives Department dated November 17, 2020 regarding The Heritage Advisory Committee on the Sir John A. Macdonald "Holding Court" Working Group Recommendations

STAFF RECOMMENDATION

1.THAT the report of Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (hereafter PEHAC) and the enclosed report of the 'Holding Court' John A. Macdonald Statue Working Group (hereafter Working Group) be received;

PEHAC RECOMMENDATIONS

2.THAT the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (hereafter PEHAC) recommend to Council to acknowledge the Working Group recommendation for removal of the Holding Court Statue of Sir John A Macdonald (hereafter statue) from Picton Main St., and;

3.THAT while a location for it to be removed to has not been specified, PEHAC supports the assumption of the Working Group that the statue would be removed to storage for later consideration, and;

4.THAT further consideration and public engagement be undertaken on the future of the statue for permanent removal or a more appropriate alternate location on either private or public property, and;

5.THAT PEHAC recommends such further consideration and public

Page 3 of 273 engagement and final decision on permanent removal or alternate location occur no later than September 2022, and

6.THAT PEHAC recommends developing a public art policy by the end of 2021 for the future display of any public installations or pieces of art, that reaffirms Prince Edward County's commitment to anti-racist attitudes and to inclusiveness of marginalized peoples in its community, and;

7.THAT PEHAC supports private ventures or pursuing efforts of its own or the Municipality to greater showcase indigenous art and culture (e.g. those of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte), and; 8.THAT PEHAC supports the recommendation of the Working Group to obtain a formal legal opinion prior to temporary or permanent removal, and; 9.THAT, should the removal of the statue prove unworkable (e.g. due to legal or other considerations), PEHAC supports the Working Group’s agreed second-highest ranked choice to modify the statue in its existing location.

CSP-57/2020 Schedule A - Working Group Report to PEHAC Att 1 - Donor Agreement Att 2 - WG Terms of Reference Att 3 - Public Suggestions Att 4 - HCWG Options - Condensed Att 5 - Conversations with City of Kingston Att 6 - Public Emails to October 2 2020 Att 7 - HCWG Ranked votes by member Att 8 - Public Feedback after Nov 4 Att 9 - Public Feedback from Oct 2-Oct 28 PEHAC - Written Response (addendum) October 19 Statement (addendum) RAbernethy Statement (addendum) HCWG - Oct 20 Meeting Notes (addendum)

8. CONFIRMATORY BY-LAW

272 - 273 8.1 By-law to Confirm the Proceedings of this meeting

THAT the following by-law be read a first, second and third time and finally passed:

A By-law to Confirm the Proceedings of the Council of the Corporation of the County of Prince Edward at the special meeting held on November 17, 2020. By-law

Page 4 of 273 9. ADJOURNMENT

9.1 Motion to Adjourn

THAT this special meeting now adjourn at ______.

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Deputation to Council on the Macdonald Statue (Nov 17-2020)

Very few great national figures who have played a critical role in the development of their country have been without flaws. Many have made questionable decisions in the course of discharging their public responsibilities. Recognizing this acknowledges the complexity of history. Labeling historical figures as “all good”, or “all bad”, contradicts reality, and strongly suggests the promotion of a particular agenda, rather than a meaningful analysis of the facts. We should all strive for a balanced, accurate judgement of history from which we can learn, and which serves to inform future actions. Continuous improvement is essential. We must always strive to do better, while not forgetting how we got here. Learning the whole truth is required to inform a lasting reconciliation with history.

Winston Churchill was a great national figure. Very few would dispute that he played a critical role in the defeat of the Axis powers in the Second World War. Widely praised for his war-time leadership, and a hero amongst most of the Western World at the end of the War, he was not a man without significant character flaws, or serious mistakes in judgement. Does this diminish his principal achievements, or cause us to reject his outstanding contributions to world peace? It shouldn’t, and in the minds of most it doesn’t.

But Churchill should not be celebrated as some sort of saint or blameless savior of the Free World. His character and actions through a critical period of world history should be examined in the context of his times and judged accordingly on the basis of the known facts. I would hope that reasonable people everywhere could agree that even flawed individuals, who have sometimes made questionable decisions over the course of a long public career, could still be recognized and celebrated for substantial achievements. We should all be capable of making such a balanced judgement. One in which perspective and context are critically important.

John A. Macdonald was no Winston Churchill, but he deserves to be judged by history using the same standards. I bring Churchill into our discussion to illustrate that even the most prominent national leaders who have made substantial contributions to the development of their jurisdictions are not immune from

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serious criticism and second-guessing. My point is that our judgement should be capable of balancing the “good” with the “bad”, while not overlooking either. In celebrating significant achievement, it should be recognized that we are not endorsing every single decision made by that individual over his or her lifetime.

We are here today to discuss a statue of Sir John A. Macdonald that presently stands in front of the Library on the Main St of Picton. Why is it there? A principal reason is its potential to promote important educational opportunities. I have seen, in both official languages, families stop by the statue with the children asking Who is that man? And Why is he here? These critical opportunities for a greater understanding of our history are few and far between. They need to be encouraged…not eliminated. Our future growth as a country depends on it.

Yes, there needs to be a more complete set of information about Macdonald associated with the statue. This is particularly true in terms of understanding his relationship over many years with our First Nations people. It would be a great step forward if companion resources (explanatory plaques or links to further information) could come from this discussion of the statue. What better place could there be to address this desire for more knowledge than in front of a library.

It has been said that the Macdonald statue should not remain on Main St if there is a single individual who is going to be upset by its presence there. In my view, as regrettable as that might be, it would be an even greater shame if the many visitors to the County who pass by this statue were not able to learn important lessons from our past through an examination of Macdonald in the context of Canadian history. As Richard Gwyn, one of Macdonald’s foremost biographers has said, “No Macdonald, No Canada”. Those who value the existence of Canada in our modern world, would be well-advised to learn more about how we got here. Only then can we collectively chart a course towards an even better future for all Canadians. Continuous improvement is essential. We can always do better.

In terms of further context for the presence of the Macdonald statue on Main St, let me address the original intent. The statue of Sir John A. Macdonald on the Main St in Picton is a representation of a little-known courtroom appearance that changed the course of Canadian history. Macdonald spent most of a decade

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growing up in and around the County. In the summer of 1834, as a 19 year old, Macdonald was involved in an altercation with a local political figure, not far from where the statue is located today. Charges were laid, and he found himself in court. The statue depicts the young Macdonald standing next to an empty prisoner’s dock. He would have been sitting in that dock himself, if he were not acting in his own defence. As an aspiring lawyer, Macdonald had to make sure he won the case. A conviction could have blocked his pathway to a legal career. He was acquitted in the same Courthouse which still stands in Picton today. Macdonald completed his legal training, entered politics as the long-standing MP for Kingston, and in 1867, became the founding Prime Minister of Canada.

The statue which was commissioned and placed on Main St is not of Churchill, or any other prominent political figure in Canada or abroad. The statue is of Macdonald, someone who spent a decade of his formative years in the County. He then went on to play a major role in the founding of Canada, a nation which is the envy of many around the world. Surely this is something that the people of Prince Edward County can be justifiably allowed to celebrate. This is certainly the opinion of the almost 2000 people who endorsed a petition in support of leaving the statue on Main St.

Macdonald’s impact has been great, and many people have benefited from the framework that he created for the country called Canada. Did everything unfold smoothly over the past 150 years…of course not! Are we now where we need to be as a country of many nations with respect and dignity for all….not by a long shot! But do we have a framework for building on our achievements and learning from our past mistakes?…I sincerely believe we do. And this is what we need to build on as we strive for even greater strength through our rich diversity.

For all of these reasons, I sincerely hope that the Macdonald statue remains in front of the library as a continuous reminder of our need to learn from the past, as we work together on a better future for everyone.

Brian H Barber November 9, 2020

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Deputation to special Council meeting, County of Prince Edward, Nov 17, 2020 Re: Sir John A. Macdonald Bruce Pardy, Professor of Law, Queen’s University, speaking on my own behalf

Outline of remarks 1. The place of Sir John A. Macdonald in Canadian history 2. Allegations against Sir John A. Macdonald and some historical facts 3. The present political context: “presentism”, critical race theory and the era of the mob 4. The meaning of “reconciliation” 5. The implications of cancelling Sir John A. Macdonald

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Deputation Concerning Sir John A Macdonald

Thank you for the opportunity to be here. 1 I would like to do four things today: -review what others have said about Macdonald’s relationship with Indigenous people and his larger role in creating Canada. -talk about the origins of the controversy and why we are even considering removal of the statue. I think is vital to understand the role of social media in promoting unnecessary conflict and division on matters such as this. -outline the risks of presentism, that is judging matters in the past by the standards of today. -describe the importance of statues.

2 Rather than review the details of Macdonald’s conduct and achievements, I will simply summarize what others who have studied him have said about him.

3 In a mock trial held at Queen’s university a few years ago, Ian Bennie, a retired supreme court judge, heard arguments from lawyers acting as prosecutors and defenders of Macdonald and rendered a verdict based on these presentations. While he acknowledged the horrible problems faced by Indigenous people on the prairies while Macdonald was Prime Minister and that he could have done more to alleviate these, Bennie concluded that there is reasonable doubt about the connection between these events and Macdonald’s role as Prime Minister. In other words, Macdonald’s behavior was not criminal in nature, contrary to the views presented by the prosecuting attorney and by others who make the same arguments today.

4 The views of Richard Gyn, a prominent journalist who wrote two definitive biographies of Macdonald, are relevant. Gyn states:

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“to describe Macdonald as a racist is pure, and smug, presentism or the judging of the past by the standards of the present, thereby proclaiming our moral superiority to all Canadians who lived earlier. It’s the equivalent of condemning Macdonald for not having implemented same-sex marriages. More to the immediate point, it is grossly inaccurate. On most matters concerning race and ethnicity, Macdonald was far ahead of his times and he would remain ahead for decades to come in many respects”.

5 In 1871, President Grant in the US unilaterally terminated hundreds of treaties between the US government and Indian tribes. In that same year, Macdonald initiated the first of 11 treaties that were ultimately signed by indigenous tribes and the federal government. We should think long and hard about the difference between these approaches taken at the same time. There is no doubt that Macdonald was more farsighted and far more humane than Grant.

6 In summary and with the wisdom of hindsight, it is probable that Macdonald and his government could have done more and moved more quickly to alleviate the terrible problems of Indigenous people on the prairies and elsewhere. However, accusations of criminal behavior, racism, and lack of concern for the welfare of Indigenous people seem to be unfounded.

7 it is reasonable to ask why so many want statues of Macdonald removed and why the language related to this has become so shrill even though, as I have noted, the evidence to support these demands is so thin. The answer to this question is especially important in understanding this and many other current controversies and it is related to the role of the social media.

8 In making the arguments which follow, I am indebted to an article by Joan Donovan in the current edition of Scientific American, one of the most respected magazines in the world.

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9 Social media platforms allow everybody, by posting, to become their own media outlets and they get attention by sensationism and outrage. Ms. Donovan notes that “the truth is often emotionally boring and that the motivation to take action online through, say, sharing a video, requires some combination of outrage, novelty and hope. This, in part, explains the shrill language surrounding the statues of Macdonald here and elsewhere.

10 Ms. Donovan points out another serious problem arising from the ubiquity of social media platforms and the extent to which we now depend on them. In her words “no longer did Internet users see the same information. Instead, algorithmic echo chambers shaped individual news feeds and timelines to the extent that two people sitting side by side may receive quite different recommendations based on their past behaviours online.” This helps us understand why it is often much more difficult than it was before the age of the Internet to achieve consensus on matters such as the Macdonald statue. If people find it increasingly difficult to agree on commonly understood facts, they will find it increasingly difficult to agree on anything at all.

11 The final and perhaps the most important issue noted by Ms. Donovan relates to the difficulty of ensuring veracity on the social media. In her words, “the very design of social media and the incentives to plant misinformation are weighted in favor of disinformers. In an environment where novel claims travel far and fast, the truth is at a serious disadvantage”.

12 I Hope it helps council if we understand the problems caused by social media – and the extent to which we rely on them for everyday communication - in dealing with controversial issues such as the Macdonald statue. In deciding on matters such as the Macdonald statue, the upshot is that we should not be diverted from the evidence before us by stridency and unfounded

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assertions, often coming from the social media. As I previously mentioned, the evidence relating to many criticisms of Macdonald is weak.

13 I mentioned earlier what is known as presentism or judging people in the past by the standards of the present. There are two forms of presentism one must consider in relation to Macdonald.

14 The first of these is not understanding and reflecting the context in which the person being judged – in this case Macdonald – operated. He was managing an infant country, purchasing Rupert’s land, dealing with indigenous people, many of them starving – coming across the border from the US, dealing with an inept and cruel American President and trying to get the CPR built so that Canada could endure. Macdonald had a very full agenda by almost any standard and any policy deficiencies he exhibited should be looked at in this context.

15 The second thing about presentism is using the moral values of the present to judge the past. The example Richard Gyn used is same sex marriage. Society has judged that same sex marriage is just as permissible as heterosexual marriage, and some might judge harshly the behavior of leaders in the past who did not believe and enable same sex marriage. This would seem to most to be very unfair. We must judge people by the social and political environment in which they lived, not by present standards.

16 It is also important to set any judgements we make about a particular weakness of a leader against the larger stage of his or her life. From this perspective, Macdonald probably made many mistakes and he may have liked a wee dram too much. He almost certainly did not fully understand many issues relating to Aboriginal citizens even though he expressed the view that they had the same rights as other citizens.

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These issues should be seen against the fact that if Sir John had not lived, we might have had Donald Trump governing us for the past few years! He built the foundations for modern Canada. In his eulogy of Macdonald Wilfred Laurier recognized this. He said: “As to his statesmanship, it is written in the history of Canada. It may be said without any exaggeration whatever that the life of Sir John Macdonald, from the date he entered parliament is the history of Canada’. Modern critics who are so eager to condemn Macdonald for problems and argue for the removal of his statues should remember this larger context. The sum of what he created is much greater than the sum of whatever problems might have been apparent in his life or activities.

17 Finally, some have indicated that statues are not important and that we should not be too concerned about the removal of this one, even though it was the work of a distinguished sculptor and reflects the efforts of many in the community who put it in place. I do not think that anyone who made these arguments has ever looked closely at the statue of the weeping mother on the Vimy memorial or the faces on the figures in the national war memorial. They may not have seen Michelangelo’s statue of David in Florence. Statues, as these examples illustrate, are often vital strands that hold communities together. They are visual markers of the passage of time. They are a public way of recognizing and valuing achievement. They reflect and celebrate history and the importance of learning from it. Statues are also testimonies to the sculptor’s abilities and sculptors have long been recognized as important interpreters of the human condition. If one views the statue of Macdonald in Picton from these perspectives, removal could be profoundly destabilizing to a community with a strong history involving Macdonald that should be told. I hope you will ensure that removal does not happen.

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Deputation to Mayor & Council on November 17, 2020 re the Statue of Sir John A. Macdonald on Main Street Picton.

Mr Mayor and members of Council

My name is Leo Finnegan and I had the privilege of serving as Mayor of this great County for two terms, seven years from 2003 to 2010. I joined the Lake Ontario Cement Plant staff in 1958 and my wife and I moved to Picton in 1960 as the Cement Plant was commencing operations , Our three children grew up here and we as a family are proud to be part of Prince Edward County During my last year in office My wife Maureen and I were invited to attend a gathering of people at the Red Barn on the Glenora Road. At that gathering Mr. David Warrick and others introduced us the idea of having a statue made by the well known sculpture Ruth Abernathy, honouring our First Prime Minister Sir John A Macdonald. The assembled group were very favourable to the proposal. July 1st 2015 was a beautiful summer day in Picton. Part of the main street was blocked off and a large happy crowd assembled for the unveiling of a stature of Sir. John A Holding Court.

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I began to read about Sir John A a few years ago when I learned he had lived in this part of Ontario. He worked with his father at a mill at Glenora He lived in the Picton area for some eleven years.

He practiced law in Picton and defended himself in a court case, in our court house on Union Street. He later moved to Kingston where he continued his law practice and then got elected to the Legislature. Sir John A was our First Prime Minister for eighteen years and a Father of Confederation. He took a lead in Bringing the Canadian Pacific rail road across Canada He was largely responsible for bringing the provinces together and if was not for his efforts the western part of Canada may of become part of the United States.

Yes, somethings happened during his time such as residential schools but he was not alone. From what I have read he worked at trying to improve conditions for the First nation people.

The Council of 2010-2014 whole heartedly agreed to the erection of a statue on our main street honouring Sir John

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A. After consultation with many community groups who for the most part were in favour, a contract was signed. Thousand of dollars were raised and spent to make this project a reality. The city of Kingston hired a consulting group of first nation people to study the issue in their city and concluded to leave the statue in their city as is.

Chief R Donald Maracle of the Bay of Quinte Mohawks has been quoted as saying leave the statue and add to the inscription. I have met Chief R Donald on several occasions ,he is a very intelligent man who does not make frivolous comments

I urge you as a council to leave the statue on the main Street and perhaps have information posted as to the positive and negatives of our first Prime Minister. This our history. Leave it alone Thank you Leo Finnegan

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Mr. Mayor and Council, I address you today as a donor and as someone who supports leaving the John A. Macdonald statue in its present location on Main Street.

PICTON CHARETTE March 2003 In 2003, the Department of Architectural Science and Landscape Architecture at Ryerson University submitted a proposal…. Ryerson University Department of Architectural Science and Landscape Architecture The objective of this proposal is to revive and rejuvenate the commercial district of downtown to promote economic growth, and to emphasize the importance of preserving the collective memory of Picton.

The Mayor has stated that the working group will not be examining the history of Canada, but rather focusing on the statue itself. With that in mind, the question becomes what does the statue represent to our community? Its original intent was to represent a moment in time where a young lawyer presented his first court case in the town of Picton, in October 1834. Little did we know that he would become an important political figure in the future building of our country.

History aside, let’s examine our community. Prince Edward County has always been a welcoming community. Offshore workers have assisted our farming community in the harvesting of their crops for many years and continue to do so today. People of colour and of different nationalities operate commercial businesses, restaurants and convenience stores within our towns and villages. We welcomed Syrian refuges providing them with a safe environment to rebuild their lives. We have a vibrant LGBQT community who have and continue to contribute to the well-being of our community. Some of whom I know and consider them my friends. We have welcomed them into our homes and social circles and celebrate their Pride activities.

We have a Police Force that should be the envy of others. They are truly connected to the community and provide equal justice to all. We have not witnessed any protests or marches accusing our force of injustice towards any minority groups. Do we have individuals that may exhibit racial tendencies? Like any community these people exist and must be dealt with on an individual basis. We are good example of a community with a diverse population that has adapted to a changing landscape. Let’s continue to build on our history of being a welcoming community and not join the “cancel culture train” that will surely set us back. If anything let’s use this moment to further educate and teach that past history may not be what we envision todays’ world should be, but how can we learn from the past to ensure a just future for all. It’s time to build up – not tear down.

Mr. Mayor: With all due respect, I question the Municipalities decision to have the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee form a subcommittee to lead a public discussion about the future of the John A Macdonald statue. The composition of the working group in itself has been a contentious issue.

According to the terms of reference, the Working Group will advise the Heritage Advisory Committee and Council on Truth and Reconciliation in regards to the "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald statue in Picton. This statue is a reflection of a moment in time when a young Macdonald was representing himself in court in his first trial. This is purely a moment of County history prior to Sir John A’s

Page 18 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.5 political history. Any decision to make this a talking point around later actions taken by Macdonald’s government, or subsequent governments during the building of our nation, has no validity. It appears as though discrimination has no boundaries. The women of Samson Cree have filed a new class-action suit that challenges decades of discrimination they have faced from their own First Nations. Women lost their Indian status when married to a non-status man. Samson Cree does not recognize the legislative change, arguing that it infringes on its Indigenous right to self-government.

The public was well aware of the project back in 2015. The project was open and transparent. A large crowd welcomed the statue to Main Street, Picton. George Wright, 95-year-old decorated war veteran remarked “it was one of the largest crowds in my living memory.” Also, in attendance were the Treasurer of the Law Society, a Justice from the Ontario Court of Appeal, the President of the Champlain Society, the Mayor of Prince Edward, R.H. Thomson delivering the Laurier eulogy, sitting members of the municipal, provincial and federal governments and politicians of all parties. The project was funded by literally hundreds of donors through foundations, private donations or in kind services. The principal donor was Canadian Heritage.

There were no objections at the time and for five years the statue has stood on Main Street. No wilful damage or acts of vandalism had occurred other than the occasional scarf and a COVID-19 mask placed on the statue. This changed on June 29, 2020 when John A was vandalized. The Working Group and local protest groups have yet to condemn this action.

Recently in an interview Dr. Niigaan Sinclair commented “Our children watch us and look to see who we hold up.... and, if we hold up someone who perpetrated genocide…our children will act a certain way and we shouldn’t be surprised. Or, maybe our children will reject us and then we’ve created a conflict with our children….Violence is violence is violence.”

Given this recent act of community violence, this is all the more reason to have John A remain front and centre. What do we tell our children when they ask “what happen, why did someone paint the statue”? Do we tell them that bigotry, racism and historical ignorance is alive and well amongst our own? Is this act of community violence the path to reconciliation?

The Chair of the Macdonald Project recently said “the cancel culture” is spreading faster than COVID- 19. I agree. We cannot hope to improve our future by dismissing our past. The issues of inequality and injustice have occurred in our past, but we can continue to make progress by studying our history instead of dismissing it. We can work with governments and civic organizations to change behaviours, attitudes and the treatment of others.

“Enough is Enough” is a legitimate cry for help. But, let’s focus on the real issues of today. Attempting to vilify past politicians will not assist us in moving forward. It’s time to work together. The past is the past. We should ask “what can we do now, what needs to be changed, do we have the will for change”? We should be focusing on what we can do as a community to ensure equal opportunity and provide social justice for all of our residents.

Recently we have witnessed outside interests criticize our past without fully understanding the historical context of events in our past. These opinions have further complicated this local issue. Some conversations have focussed on class struggles, some on race.

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The Truth and Reconciliation Commission did not wish to erase history but to listen, include, rewrite and teach Indigenous history. I think we should learn from our past and work together moving forward for a better future for all Canadians.

I did not find any recommendations that asked for the removal or destruction of any statues. Martin Luther King , Nelson Mandela and John Robert Lewis saw the way forward through non-violence. I would like to suggest that we host a forum to promote and educate our citizens to the history and heritage of the County and surrounding areas including Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. We must, however, be careful not to attempt to tell the stories of Canada’s Indigenous peoples. That is best left to the Mohawk community.

I recently visited the “All Welcome Here PEC” Web site. To my dismay the introduction reads “Are you BIPOC in PEC? Join our closed Facebook group! Exclusively for Black, Indigenous and people of colour living in (and visiting) The County. What is the message here? You must be part of this identified group or you’re not welcome? How does this invite constructive dialog encouraging all to participate in moving towards truth and reconciliation? Positive results will not occur through special interest groups protesting and demanding that the new “cancel culture” is the way forward. Why do we continue to label people according to the colour of their skin? Although we cannot and should not dismiss the BLM and the BIPOC movements the main issue of the TRC is Macdonald’s government and subsequent government’s actions against Indigenous peoples.

The Macdonald statue has accomplished exactly what the truth and reconciliation commission had hoped for. The statue has encouraged dialogue regarding our history and it gives us the opportunity through peaceful means to move forward and build a community and a nation that affords all people opportunities to reach their goals in life. Let’s celebrate the advances that we have accomplished and continue to accomplish over the years. We can resolve our issues if we have the will and the resolve. We cannot change the past by denying its existence and we cannot change the future through false accusations and mistruths.

As a life-long resident, having been born and raised in Prince Edward County, I too, like Macdonald am a “County Boy.” It is disheartening to witness such unrest that has brought community division to our welcoming and friendly Loyalists shores. I heard this quote on TV “We need to move from Protest to Problem Solving”. Now, is our opportunity.

Respectfully submitted Gordon Fox Picton, Ontario November 17, 2020

Page 20 of 273 Sir John A Macdonald Father of Confederation

Symbol of Reconciliation Page 21 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Lawyer - Avid genealogist, amateur historian - My roots: Polish, Acadian, Metis Page 22 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Picton should maintain Sir John A’s statute in a prominent location and provide additional informational panelling Page 23 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Sir John A showed inspired, forceful and compassionate leadership on behalf of Canada’s Native peoples at a critical time in our nation’s development

Page 24 of 273 - His strong leadership, without a doubt, saved tens of thousands of Native lives. AGENDA ITEM #5.6

Page 25 of 273 - TRC Principle 6 - All Canadians, as Treaty peoples, share responsibility for establishing and maintaining mutually respectful relationships

- TRC Principle 3 - Reconciliation is a process of healing of relationships that requires public AGENDA ITEM #5.6 truth sharing

- Construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway - Rupert’s Land Acquisition Page 26 of 273 - Persuading BC to join Confederation

- Etc, etc, etc AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Leadership that saved tens of thousands of Page 27 of 273 Native lives AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Prime Minister of Canada for 19 of the 24 years between Confederation and his death - a remarkable run! Page 28 of 273

(1867-1873 and 1878-1891) AGENDA ITEM #5.6

© Greg Piasetzki 2020 A Few Truths for Sharing About Sir John A (1) His Treaty Commission avoided the Indian Wars that killed 60,000 Natives in the U.S. (2) His Famine Relief Program (1880-1885) was providing food to 30,000 Natives at its peak (3) His Smallpox vaccination program for Natives (1867-1885) eradicated the disease

Page 29 of 273 and saves thousands of Native Lives (4) He built 200 Native day schools (and only 19 AGENDA ITEM #5.6 residential schools) and insisted that Native school attendance was voluntary © Greg Piasetzki 2020 - Source for Information Indian Affairs Annual Reports (IAAR) - Contain a wealth of data - 500 to 1,000 pages long - Reports from every reserve or district from

Page 30 of 273 1867 on - Details on every aspect of AGENDA ITEM #5.6 reserve life including schooling © Greg Piasetzki 2020 Background

- 1870 Canada acquired Rupert's Land and the Northwest Territories and in 1872 BC joined Confederation

Page 31 of 273 - Canada’s land area increases 10 fold and its native population 5 fold AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- No roads, no rail, few rivers © Greg Piasetzki 2020 Background

Canada 1867 - Settler Population 3,400,000 - Native population 20,000

Rupert’s Land & NWT & BC - Settler Population 30,000 Page 32 of 273 - Native population 100,000

- Land Mass of Canada Increases AGENDA ITEM #5.6 greater than 10X

- It is estimated that as many as 60,000 Natives, 10, 000 U.S. army personnel and 20,000 settlers died in the U.S. Indian Wars Page 33 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- By 1879, 10 years later, all Native bands had signed treaties

Page 34 of 273 - Under the treaties the Natives agreed to

exchange any land rights they had for land AGENDA ITEM #5.6 reserved for them (reserves) together with….

- cash and/or other gifts on signing; - annual cash payments or other gifts; - farming equipment and instruction; - schools, school instructors (when

Page 35 of 273 requested by a band); - and housing. AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Settlement proceeded with no violence and no loss of life

- A dramatic contrast with the U.S. experience, where 80,000 or more died. Page 36 of 273

- Thousands of Native lives were saved. AGENDA ITEM #5.6

© Greg Piasetzki 2020 (2) Famine Relief Program) - Sir John A immediately implemented a massive famine relief program, the largest in Canadian history until the Depression, consuming about 3% of the budget.

- By 1880 the Superintendent of Indian Affairs was reporting: Page 38 of 273

“The bulk of the Indians in the North-West Territories (30,000+) AGENDA ITEM #5.6 are to-day, and have been, for the last 12 months, almost entirely dependent on the Government for their assistance.”

- The program had its share of incompetence and corruption in purchasing, shipping (no railway) and distributing the food.

- The program’s shortcomings were widely reported in the press and debated in Page 39 of 273 Parliament at the time. AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- A remarkable achievement given the logistical hurdles to be overcome. Page 40 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Sir John A was frequently criticized for the cost of the program in Parliament and for it being too generous.

- He had extended the program to all Natives- even those off reserve, in breach of their Page 41 of 273 treaty obligations, received half rations until they returned to their reserve. AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- He responded to his critics in Parliament:

- “Public sentiment would not allow, and no Government would be worthy of their position, if they allowed the Indians to starve as long as we have the means to feed them.” - There can be no doubt that Sir John A’s

Page 42 of 273 leadership on this issue saved thousands of

Native lives AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- The Canadian government policy under Sir John A, from the time of Confederation onwards, was to vaccinate all Native Canadians against smallpox

- Pre Confederation, smallpox had killed as Page 43 of 273 many as 10,000 Native Canadians in a single year AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- By 1885, as a result of the program, virtually all of the Natives had been vaccinated and the threat of smallpox for Native Canadians Page 44 of 273 had been eliminated. AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- The policy saved many thousands of Native lives © Greg Piasetzki 2020 (4) Residential Schools - Sir John A was not responsible for Residential Schools – they existed before Confederation.

- Nor is he responsible for any perceived deficiencies long after he died. Page 45 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- Building and staffing, at the request of band leaders, 185 native day schools while building only 20 residential schools

- Insisting that Native education be voluntary – Page 46 of 273 no child Native child needed to attend school during his lifetime (day school or residential) AGENDA ITEM #5.6

- During Sir John A’s life, and for another 60 years thereafter (until the 1950’s), the average native student who did attend school, did so for 1 year. Page 47 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

There is only one way - patience, patience, patience. … You must treat them, and our children, and our grand-children, and our great Page 48 of 273 grand-children, must treat them in the same way… AGENDA ITEM #5.6

Sir John A Macdonald is a great symbol of reconciliation for all Canadians Page 49 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

As U.S. president Coolidge stated:

“A nation that forgets its heroes will itself soon be forgotten”. Page 50 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.6

Your Worship, Ladies and Gentlemen of Council

My name is Ian D. Inrig and I am a resident of Picton. I was born and raised in Picton and left in 1953 to attend military college. Prior to my departure I was employed by Canadian Dock & Dredge Company out of Trenton as an unskilled labourer, drilling anchor holes for the iron beams for the docks at what is now known as Picton Terminals. That same summer I worked for Harvey McFarland Construction Co., building what was then known as the 'New' army camp on Picton Heights.

I served in the Canadian Army and Canadian Forces for 37 years in many diverse places and in many diverse roles. In 1957, I was selected to attend and participate in an American atomic bomb detonation in Camp Desert Rock, Nevada. I had two tours of duty serving in West Germany as part of Canada's contribution to NATO during what was known as the Cold War. Our job was to stop the Russians from breaking out of East Germany, into West Germany. If they had succeeded, we would have been slaughtered. It was stress, lived every day with our families poised to flee for the ports of France on stand-by buses with prepacked suitcases by the door. During that tour the Berlin Wall was erected. The Germans were very frightened. During that tour we had the opportunity to visit Dachau Concentration Camp (CC), the first of Hitler's CC. It was a political CC holding Konrad Adenauer, at the time, the mayor of Cologne. It was not an extermination camp -the inmates were worked to death, not gassed.It is now a memorial site.

Page 51 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.7

The second tour was 10 years later. Things were calmer then.My wife and I got into Berlin, a prohibited destination, because our son played midget hockey. We stood at CheckPoint Charlie and looked across the killing fields,a thousand metres wide, while an elderly couple pulled aside their East German curtain and waved a handkerchief to acknowledge the young couple standing beside us holding up their new born child.

During that tour we had the opportunity to visit the Bergen- Belsen Concentration Camp. It was an extermination CC. It too is now a memorial park, with very large mounds representing the million of Jews and others killed there.

In 1967, when Canada was celebrating our Centennial, I was serving on the staff of the United Nations HQ in Cyprus doing peacekeeping. I tell you all this not to exploit my bravado but to illustrate that when one is serving in the Canadian Forces there is no distinction except rank, no colour, no consideration for difference, no diversity. When your safety is at risk, you and the person providing that safety must be confident that we are all one. No difference.

Following my service in the Canadian Forces, I served as the national administrator of the Army, Navy, & Airforces Veterans in Canada, Canada;s oldest Veterans association. During that period I was a member of a number of committees, including the creation of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the National War Memorial.in Ottawa. I was awarded the Canada

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125 Anniversary celebration medal and the Head of Service recognition for such service. I had exposure to heritage in its many facets and at many levels, including a visit to the National Holocaust Museum in Washington DC, at the invitation of the American Legion..

I have no intention at this time of discussing Sir John A's place and impact on our history or the issues of the residential schools. Those subjects are too complex for the 10 minutes allowed here, and should be the subject of deeper debate in the future.. However, it troubles me greatly when someone comes into the County, sees some artifact, and says, words to the effect, 'that upsets me and I think it should be removed'. One person! I have great difficulty with the notion that someone can feel so entitled that they can make such a demand. Where do they get this sense of entitlement? I don't walk into your house and say"I don't like your grandfather clock.Get rid of it" They, like anyone else, have a choice. If they don't like what exists or what they see, they can go somewhere else. No one forces them to remain here.

I am troubled as well by the willingness of the municipality management to take up this issue on behalf of one person and a gaggle of supporters and throw the full support and resources of the municipality into resolving what may be considered by some to be a tempest in a teacup. Surely there are greater issues to resolve. Someone's judgement is faulty.

Page 53 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.7

If you, Council, collectively move to remove the statue "Holding Court" you will be setting a very dangerous precedent. For the demand for revisionist history won't end with such action. There will be those, emboldened by this precedent, who will demand that the names of Picton, Wellington, Black River, Ameliasburgh, Sophiasburgh, and Marysburgh, among others, be changed due to their connection to villainy or colour, or whatever. Where will it end?

My recommendation to you, members of council, is this: Receive the recommendations of the Working Group and PEHAC, i.e.no action taken upon the motion being received. Put forward a new motion that that the work of art "Holding Court" remain in its present location until the next municipal election, when a plebiscite can be held to allow the people of Prince Edward County to express their wishes on whether Holding Court remain or be removed. Let the people decide!

You may well ask how my 37 years of military service and 8 years of veterans service assists me in dealing with people from all walks of life. I learned that people are as diverse as the birds in the sky and that their foibles are worthy of respectful consideration. I learned that no one should be dismissed simply because their point of view does not coincide with mine.

Thank you.

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Marilyn Warrick’s Deputation to Council, November 17, 2020

My name is Marilyn Warrick. I was the Secretary / Treasurer for the Macdonald Project Steering Committee for approximately five years and I continue that work today. I am also a member of the Friends of Macdonald Prince Edward County and Quinte Region. We oppose the removal or relocation of the statue from its site in downtown Picton.

Over the past few months I have learned more about the history of early Canada and Macdonald’s role in it, not only in the creation of the country, but in his relationship with the Indigenous people of Canada. There has been much discussion about the issue and there have been many accusations made, but surprisingly, over the course of this discussion, I haven’t heard one positive thing said about Macdonald—the man who was responsible for the creation of the Country, who wrote 50 of the 72 resolutions that formed the basis of our Constitution, who connected the country from coast to coast to coast and helped to prevent Canada from becoming part of U.S.A. on at least 6 occasions. He was the man who was prime minister for nineteen years, elected 6 times with a majority government and spent 48 years in public life and yet I haven’t heard one positive comment about this man, who devoted his life to Canada.

I also haven’t heard any consideration being given to the approximately 100 business and private donors who gave between $10.00 and $30,000 each to the Macdonald Project. These were donations made with the understanding that Council had unanimously approved the project. Council not only has a legal obligation to these people, they have a moral one. The

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Macdonald Project is a victim in this exercise and no consideration has been given to the committed individuals who gave so much to bring the portrait of the young John A Macdonald to Picton over five years. It was a valuable gift created by a world renowned artist, Ruth Abernethy, famous for her portraits of Glenn Gould, Oscar Peterson, Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae and many other celebrated Canadians. Her work now can be easily dismissed with the stroke of a pen if social activists create havoc in communities across Canada.

Because Canadian history hasn’t been taught in public schools for years, Canadians often don’t feel comfortable discussing issues around Macdonald. They don’t feel that they know enough to have an opinion on the issue and they often believe the accusations being thrown out so casually by activists.

As an example, do most Canadians know that Macdonald started 180 industrial DAY schools for Indigenous children at the request of band leaders and only twenty residential schools in remote areas where day schools were impractical? In all of these schools, attendance was VOLUNTARY.

Do they know that the vast majority of Indigenous children attended these schools for only one year, grade 1 and only 7% of school age children attended residential schools while Macdonald was prime minister? Do they know that 20 Prime Ministers after Macdonald not only continued the residential school system, but expanded it and made it compulsory in 1920, thirty years after Macdonald died?

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When discussing history context is so important. Much of what’s being said is either a distortion or a misrepresentation of fact and neither the Working Group or Council showed any interest in correcting the record. In fact, there was a directive saying no discussion about history was allowed.

The Macdonald Project was years in the making. It took countless hours of volunteer work and was supported unanimously by Council and the Mayor. The Committee received a standing ovation in the Ontario House of Commons in support of the project. We were introduced by MP Darryl Kramp and Todd Smith.

Other supporters include:

• The Premier of Ontario, Hon. Kathleen Wynne 2015 • The Lieutenant-Governor of Ontario, Elizabeth Dowdswell • Former Prime Minister of Canada, Hon. Kim Campbell • Richard Gwynn, author of the Man Who Made Us • Steve Paikin, TVO The Agenda • Justice Robert J. Sharpe • Justice Richard Byers • Hon. Bob Rae • Thomas Conway, Treasurer and CEO of the Law Society of Upper Canada • Janet Minor, Treasurer and CEO of the Law Society of Upper Canada • Professor Thomas Symons Founder of Trent University

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• Professor Patrice Dutil, former chair of the Champlain Society, Professor of Politics and Public Administration at Ryerson University • RH Thompson who recited Laurier’s eulogy to Macdonald at the portrait unveilings • The Museums of PEC • Shelley Ambrose, Editor of The Walrus • The Picton Library • The County Community Foundation

All of these people went out of their way to attend events, and several, including the Premier, the Governor General, the Former PM, and the Secretary of Law Society of Upper Canada made speeches in support of the project.

Donations were made by; • Prince Edward County, The Kingston and The Cobourg Historical Societies • The Picton Recreation Committee • The Prince Edward County Green Trust • ESSROC • The Earl B. Connell Foundation • The Tide Foundation • The Albany Club of Toronto • The TD Bank • Huff Estates Winery • The Waring House • Angeline’s Inn and Spa • Fifth Town Cheese • Friends of Macdonald Toronto

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• The Parrott Foundation donated for the purchase of two Macdonald busts one given to the schools of PEC and one to the Museums • Commemorate Canada who made a major donation • And proceeds from the re-enactment of the Lazier Murder Trial Fundraiser organized by the Macdoanld Project (125 people attended the SOLD OUT event)

There were many, many people who donated in-kind and there were also approximately 100 business and private donors. All donations were made with the understanding that Council had unanimously supported the project. An agreement was signed with the County of Prince Edward in BY-LAW NO. 3587-2015 Commemorate Canada was also a major donor and the agreement states:

The mandate of the Macdonald Project is to celebrate the official Bicentennial of the birth of Sir John A. Macdonald on January 11, 2015 by erecting a slightly larger-than-life bronze sculpture of the young lawyer Macdonald in historic downtown Picton, Ontario.

Departmental funding may be used only for the purposes specified in this application.

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The County accepted taxpayer’s money in the form of a grant from Heritage Canada. Now Council is considering using taxpayer’s money again to remove and reinstall the statue. The installation cost back in 2020 was $20,000 and that didn’t include moving the statue. It cost between $15,000 - $20,000 just to move the statue a few feet, from in front of the Armoury to in front of the Library.

This was no small project. Many events were held from Calgary to Kingston involving the three busts provided by Ruth Abernethy. There were countless newspaper articles and advertisements, speakers, and fundraising events. In the eleven years since the project began the committee has not received one complaint about the project. It has only been in the last few months that there has been any criticism of the project. And we have only heard from non-Indigenous people speaking on behalf of Indigenous people. Although Chief R. Don Maracle did speak at one of the Working Group Meetings and said that the statue meant nothing to him, that removing it would smack of revenge and that we should focus on adding to history not destroying it. That’s consistent with the Truth and Reconciliation recommendations.

The Macdonald Project was meant to celebrate a Quinte Boy who spent his formative years in PEC, who fought his first court case here, practiced law here, served as secretary of the very first School Board here, was active in the Young Men’s Debating Society, and was secretary of the Agricultural Society. His career actually began here. He went on to become the Prime Minister of Canada, receive two honorary doctorates from Oxford and Queen’s and to be knighted by Queen Victoria. It

6 Page 60 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.8 was meant to be inspirational for the children of PEC and to act as a key to unlocking the rich history in PEC. The issues that have become so controversial around Macdonald were never mentioned.

It’s difficult to know why the plaque was NOT reinstalled after the statue was moved. It merely summarized John As time in PEC in both English and French, listed who unveiled the statue and who initiated and funded the project.

I am a proud third generation Canadian and an United Empire Loyalist. I fear that those who want to remove Macdonald from the Canadian narrative are destroying my heritage. I don’t think I am the only one who feels this way.

Three recent Leger and Ipsos Reid Polls show that Canadians 2 to 1 want statues of historical figures to remain. The on-line and hard copy petition in support of the statue remaining in Picton has 2,023 signatures—more than twice as many as the one suggesting it be removed. The Have Your Say web site showed that 59% of respondents wanted the statue to remain. And the Intelligencer poll taken just last month showed 66% of respondents wanted the statue to remain. All of this was ignored by the Working Group.

I believe we should leave the statue where it is and focus on more education. Let’s hear the full story making sure it is historically accurate and in context. Let’s work on understanding one another. That will be true reconciliation.

Thank you.

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PRESENTATION TO THE PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY HERITAGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE By Patrice Dutil, Ph.D. [email protected] Department of Politics and Public Administration, Ryerson University

Speaking Notes (check against delivery)

“Be Bold, Picton: Putting John A. Macdonald and his Monument in Perspective”

• Picton, and Prince Edward County, are presented with a unique opportunity to make a landmark decision that will lead Canada into a new era of Truth and Reconciliation. • Senator Murray Sinclair has denounced attempts to remove monuments to Sir John A. Macdonald. Surely, we all can hear his message. • This committee has heard repeatedly that the grave charges levelled against Macdonald are not founded. Macdonald personally enjoyed very good relations with the indigenous community and with indigenous leaders. In the West, his government invested massively in helping to feed the indigenous people who were suddenly faced with the consequences of the disappearance of the buffalo in the 1880s. There is no evidence of a so-called genocide. • On the issue of Native Residential Schools, there is no doubt that Macdonald started the government’s funding for the program in 1883. It is equally important to note that no child was forced to attend while he was in power. Moreover, Macdonald did not innovate on this front. Residential schools practically started when Europeans landed in the Americas and continued for more than a hundred years after Macdonald’s death. • The process so far has taken the right steps. The creation of this committee has opened a dialogue on what is important in our history. Some people have discovered that Macdonald is not universally admired. Others persist in believing that Macdonald’s importance in Canadian history is unparalleled not only because he fuelled the Confederation initiative but also because he turned what was a single province of Canada into a bi-coastal country that had integrity and strength. He built the foundations on which our country stands today: one of the best places in the world to live. • Let’s not forget that in the election of 1867, almost forty percent of Quebec voters chose to support candidates that did not support Confederation, and that Nova Scotians elected to their provincial legislature a separatist government. PEI refused to join, as did Newfoundland. But it was Macdonald who convinced PEI as well as British Columbia to join Confederation. (Newfoundland debated the question passionately until it finally joined in 1949.) • Macdonald was universally praised when he died because of his vision of a united country. When people were divided gravely on the issues of region, divided by their religious affiliations, divided by their language, he saw a way to bring people together. He had ambitions. He wanted to see women take part in all aspects of life, he expanded the right to vote and he legalized trade unions. He wished no harm to the indigenous people of Canada but yes, he wished to see them assimilated into a rapidly modernizing Canada. Yes, he had little respect for their cultures, but he hoped that they could find their way and make a solid and lasting contribution to the

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country. I have no doubt that if he lived today he would be extremely pleased to see all the efforts made by the vast population of indigenous peoples to build companies, industries and to educate themselves. • People who oppose Macdonald monuments must accept that in the Canadian historical imagination, Macdonald occupies a great place. This will not change. The reality is that there are very few monuments to him in this great land. Most Canadians never even get the chance to see one up close. • Monuments serve many purposes. First, they are works of art. Picton is so lucky to have an imaginative sculpture by the justly celebrated Ruth Abernathy. Her work deserves to be seen for what it depicts and how it represents. The extraordinary efforts of the volunteer women and men to raise the money necessary to erect this monument deserves all our respect. • Monuments are also places of memory. It could be good memory, or sad memory, but memory all the same. In this society, today, we need to remember our past because this is the only way to recognize our roots. Without the stories that tie us to our roots, we have no identity. Canadians are Canadians because they have roots and they have a history, and we as citizens have a debt to our ancestors and we owe it to our successors to help them remember their past. Our society is a bond between the past, the present and the future. • So let us keep Macdonald in Picton. Let’s persist in this wonderful dialogue on Macdonald, as well as on the men who succeeded him. Let us appreciate their main accomplishments, and at the same time become deeply aware of what harm was visited upon the indigenous people of Canada by governments who followed each other without caring much about what would happen to them. • I encourage Prince Edward County and Picton to be bold. Why not launch, here in Picton, near the Macdonald monument, a new national program of Indigenous Historical Plaques, Monuments and Markers that would tell their special story. • Why not launch, here in Picton, in the Courthouse where he addressed his peers, an annual debate on Sir John A. Macdonald. It could be an annual debate, featuring voices from all sides. It could be a national encounter. It could be preceded or followed by an annual debate on Indigenous issues. This is the true path to truth and to reconciliation. • Picton has a choice. It can choose to ignore history and shy away from controversy by removing the Abernathy monument. Picton will soon be forgotten. • Picton can also choose another route: a bold route of reconciliation, one that recognizes Macdonald as a young man who walked its streets, and who went on to shape a country. At the same time, it can honour the indigenous people of Prince Edward County, who knew Macdonald, who loved and hated Macdonald, but who heroically resisted the advances of white society and who are here today, proud and honourable, eager to take their place as honoured Canadians. Picton can be the place of an annual national conversation. • That would be a blazing path to the truth and, to me, the only path to a sustainable and fruitful reconciliation.

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Good evening, everyone – and thank you for allowing me to speak about the future of Holding Court. One year ago, my partner and I attended a large gathering at St. Mary Magdalene Church to hear Dr. Niigaan Sinclair speak about “The Memorialization of Sir John A Macdonald.” His presentation was the first in a series of talks that was being planned. The launch of the series coincided with the pending re- installation of Holding Court on Main Street. I was struck by Dr. Sinclair’s answer to one question from the audience in particular. He was asked: “If it were up to you, what would you have done with the monument in Picton?” He answered: “As a newcomer, and as an Indigenous person, I would ask, ‘How do Indigenous Peoples in this territory feel about you putting up a monument to John A Macdonald?’ If your answer is, ‘We don’t know,’ then you need to start there.” I thought, we should

Page 64 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.10 also be asking, “How do non-Indigenous People feel about the statue?” And so, five of us addressed Council a few weeks later – almost exactly one year ago tonight, in fact – and asked that the re-installation of Holding Court be deferred until the public had been given a chance to share their thoughts about the statue. Instead, Council re-installed Holding Court unceremoniously on Picton Main Street less than a month later. To mollify critics of the move, the Mayor promised to seek public feedback on the statue early in the new year. This public consultation became a priority for Council only with the resurgence of Black Lives Matter protests in June and July, that included calls for the removal of statues of Confederate traitors in America, slave traders in Europe, and Macdonald in Canada. Which brings us to this evening.

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The Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee and its Macdonald Working Group have delivered a comprehensive report of their public consultation, including dozens and dozens of emails and letters, posts on the County’s Have Your Say platform, and deputations for and against the status quo, including private citizens who came to speak for themselves, a founding member of The Macdonald Project, who came “to speak on behalf history,” the Co-Vice-Chairs of the Prince Edward County Arts Council, and an invited guest from outside the County, Dr. Sean Carleton, a professor in the Departments of History and Native Studies at the University of Manitoba. The report includes a recommendation that Holding Court be removed to storage for later consideration. Returning the statue to storage, pending further public consultation, will essentially re-establish the status quo, before Council took the unilateral decision one year ago to re-install Holding Court on Picton Main.

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* * * I mentioned Dr. Sean Carleton. He was the only professional historian to address the Macdonald Working Group or the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee. I think that’s significant. Dr. Carleton emphasized four points that Council should weigh heavily. First, Macdonald committed genocide against Indigenous People. Second, statues are not history; they are celebrations of people we are meant to admire and emulate. Third, the installation and defence of tainted monuments like Holding Court are political acts. And finally, the major project defining Canada today is Truth and Reconciliation. While Canadians see Macdonald as a Nation-Builder, Indigenous People see him as a Nation-Destroyer. An architect of genocide – like Macdonald – is not a suitable person to be celebrated uncritically in our public spaces.

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In my long career in children’s mental health, I’ve witnessed the devastation of inter-generational trauma among members of many Indigenous families. I did my best to help with life-threatening crises in communities across Ontario, and in Manitoba, Labrador, and Nunavut. I’ve consulted to programs in Saskatchewan that do similar work. The Chief Coroner of Ontario has asked one of my closest colleagues to help investigate the recent deaths of multiple Indigenous children and youth in the residential care of Children’s Aid Societies. So, when I consider Macdonald’s legacy, it’s very much present and pressing in the lives of Indigenous People. And although I’ve been retired for two years, what I witnessed in my work still haunts me. * * * To Dr. Carleton’s third point, let me share my thoughts about the local politics of Holding Court –

Page 68 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.10 and particularly the undue influence of the former Macdonald Project. This group is not alone in supporting Holding Court, of course, but it’s been a powerful force through its access to mainstream media and politicians in the County. While former members of The Macdonald Project have undoubtedly contributed much to the community in other projects and ventures, their unwavering commitment to this statue has been an impediment to the County acknowledging the Truth of Macdonald’s legacy and beginning our part in the Reconciliation of Indigenous and non- Indigenous people. Every argument that the former Macdonald Project uses to defend Holding Court has been used to defend tainted monuments in postwar Germany and the American south. We could have learned from other communities’ experience of working through these difficult issues, and avoided a lot of grief, had everyone wanted to. Instead, the former

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Macdonald Project is still advancing the most discredited argument of all from these debates – that “removing statues means erasing history.” Without intending to, their insistence on making this unfounded claim has only added confusion, worsened divisions, and inflamed fear and anger in the County. In her landmark study, Learning from the Germans, Dr. Susan Neiman stresses that it’s only human nature to believe that our people, our tribe, might make mistakes, but never do anything that deserves to be condemned as evil. We need our ancestors to be honourable, and honoured, so we can claim our place of honour behind them. All the subconscious and subcutaneous influences that lead most Canadians to believe in our exceptional goodness also make it exceptionally difficult for us to recognize some horrific truths about ourselves and our past.

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Any acknowledgement of Macdonald’s bad deeds that I’ve heard from the former Macdonald Project has been drenched in ambivalence: Macdonald was a complicated man; he was imperfect, like the rest of us; he was a man of his time; he didn’t kill as many Indians as President Ulysses S. Grant; he wasn’t so bad, after all. The former Macdonald Project has never admitted the word “genocide” to describe Macdonald’s actions; it’s never condemned his actions as evil. Dr. Neiman also observes how excruciating it is for any nation to accept the burdens of its shameful history. Initial acknowledgements are too defensive, the racism too tenacious, the impulse to insist on one’s own victimization too strong. All of this equivocation and role reversal have been evident in our beginning on the path of Truth and Reconciliation in the County.

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Senator Murray Sinclair, former Chief Commissioner of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, has remarked that the Indian Residential School system took seven generations to shape the relationship between Indigenous and non- Indigenous people, and so we must be prepared for genuine Reconciliation to take that long as well. How far along are we, then? I think we’ve barely begun. In this, we’re no better or worse than the rest of Canada. The only thing that distinguishes us from most others is that we celebrate Macdonald with a statue in the centre of our community. Dr. Neiman argues that shame is the first step toward taking responsibility, and with that, toward achieving genuine national pride. I know lots of Canadians who are deeply ashamed of the genocide our people have committed against Indigenous People. Many citizens wrote about their shame in emails and submissions to the County’s

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Have Your Say platform, and spoke about it in their deputations to the Working Group and the Heritage Advisory Committee. In contrast, I can’t recall the former Macdonald Project ever expressing shame for any of Macdonald’s evil deeds. * * * It’s time for Council to make way for new voices to be heard and new leadership to be exercised in the County, and especially when it comes to the Reconciliation of Indigenous and non-Indigenous people. Old white men like me, and many of you, have had more than their fair say. Let’s have the decency and smarts to take our hands off the wheel and our feet off the brakes. Council should act immediately to remove Holding Court to storage for later consideration. While another politically-expedient decision might settle things down in the short-term, it will only

Page 73 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.10 guarantee more protests in our community, when the next atrocity against Black, Indigenous, or People of Colour hits the front page. You know it’s going to happen. It might be on our streets. It might be on our shores. It might be in our schools, or in our jails, or even, god help us, in our hospitals. Tonight, do what you can as our Mayor and Councillors to set our community in a much better place to deal when that unhappy day comes. Thank you.

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Pendragon Advisors 1595 County Road 13 Telephone: 613-471-1380 P.O. Box 1 Mobile: 416-508-6009 Crisis Business Advice Milford, Ontario Canada, K0K 2P0 Email: [email protected]

DELIVERED by Email to [email protected] Original by Mail

November 9, 2020

Ms. Emily Cowan Department of Community Development Municipality of the County of Prince Edward Shire Hall, 322 Main Street Picton, Ontario Canada K0K 2T0

Re: Statue of Sir John A. Macdonald Main Street, Picton

Dear Ms. Cowan:

Mr. Ian Batt has informed me that you are charged with gathering views respecting a proposal asking the County to remove the statue of Sir John A. Macdonald installed on municipal lands at the Library on Main Street, Picton. He suggested that I should assist your endeavours by sharing some thoughts on the intersection of residential schools and government policies during the 160 years that those schools operated in Canada.

As a student lawyer covering for his uncle, John A. Macdonald practiced in Picton in 1833 and 1834. There he famously defended himself on a charge of public mischief! He was called to the bar in 1836 when he turned 21. After a successful career in law in Kingston, he entered colonial politics. In 1867, as the leader of the government of the Province of Canada, he was a leading Father of Confederation. In 1867, the Province of Canada was divided into Ontario and Quebec and Macdonald became the first prime minister of Canada.

His government, like the government of the former colony continued to fund schools for indigenous children established and operated by various churches. Under the British North America Act, that federal government had exclusive legislative authority over “Indians and Lands reserved for the Indians”. The funding of those established schools became part of the budget of the Department of Indian Affairs.

It is now alleged that John A. Macdonald was a founder of the residential school system. That is not true.

Throughout the colonial period in Canada from the mid 1600’s, various churches and missionaries had established schools for indigenous children. Their first purpose was the

Richard B. Jones, B.A.Sc., LL.B., LL.M., P.Eng.

Page 75 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.11 Ms. Emily Cowan November 9, 2020 Page 2 conversion of these children to Christianity. By the nineteenth century, the residential school model was being used in the United States and in various British colonies to turn masses of Indigenous and poor children into “good industrious workers”. In 1830, the first residential school for Indian children in Ontario was built at Brantford by the Anglican Church. At that time, Macdonald was a 15-year-old who had just been hired by his uncle as a law student in Kingston.

These schools reflected a general belief that indigenous people were “savages” who would benefit from becoming “civilized”. As a Canadian government official put it in 1879, “…if anything is to be done with the Indian, we must catch him very young. The children must be kept constantly within the circle of civilized conditions.” Macdonald died in 1891 in office after failing to gain caucus support for a proposal to extend the franchise to Indian men, if they had property.

The policy of assimilation continued. In 1920, the Department of Indian Affairs put it even more bluntly: “I want to get rid of the Indian problem. I do not think as a matter of fact, that the country ought to continuously protect a class of people who are able to stand alone…Our objective is to continue until there is not a single Indian in Canada that has not been absorbed into the body politic and there is no Indian question, and no Indian Department, that is the whole object of this Bill.” In 1920, the government of Canada was led by Sir Robert Borden of the Unionist Party and after July by Arthur Meighen of the Liberal and Conservative Party.

By 1900, there were 39 residential schools in Canada and, at its peak in 1931, there were 80 residential schools operating across Canada. The education provided in these schools was mostly substandard, and the schools were underfunded, mismanaged, and often unsafe. Many burnt down and were then replaced, only to burn again. Many children died but there were few records of either the causes of their deaths or the locations of their graves. Many schools were located in remote areas and far from adequate or any supervision or inspection by the Department of Indian Affairs.

Awful cases of neglect and physical and sexual abuse occurred regularly. One of the most horrible places was St. Anne’s Residential School at Fort Albany, Ontario on James Bay. It opened in 1906, relocated to the other side of the Albany River in 1932, burnt down in 1939 and was rebuilt. Children were routinely abused physically and sexually. A priest had built in the basement of the school an electric chair, which he used for punishment of children as entertainment. Survivors only began to reveal their experiences in the 1990’s. A five-year OPP investigation resulted in charges and convictions of several former teachers and administrators. Full details of those events and of the police investigation were concealed until they were compelled to be provided to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission chaired by Justice Frank Iacobucci.

In 1996, the last of the residential schools in Canada was finally closed. Every government of Canada from the first Macdonald government in 1867 to the Chretien government in 1996 funded these schools through the budgets of the Department of Indian Affairs.

Richard B. Jones, B.A.Sc., LL.B., LL.M., P.Eng.

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Residential schools were conceived as a tool to civilize indigenous peoples and were premised on the belief that such was best accomplished by aggressive assimilation of the indigenous people (and of their lands). Every government of the colonies and subsequently of the new nation, Canada, accepted this basic concept and routinely funded these schools operated by Catholic and protestant churches. It should also be noted that similar residential schooling systems were used in the United States, Ireland, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and Sweden for the same purposes and often with some of the same disgraceful consequences.

Today, we can see these programs for the racist policies of cultural genocide that they functionally were. However, they were the conventional wisdom of their times. Egerton Ryerson, mostly applauded as the founder of public education in Ontario, contributed an intellectual rationalization for the residential school program but must not have known how poor their actual performance was. It is now obvious that the residential school program is a dark racist stain on Canada’s history.

The folly of the proposal to remove the Macdonald statue is the conflating of these historical facts with our current moral values and applying those understanding to the distant past. Yes, we can now see that the residential schools program was morally wrong, incompetently managed, ineffective for its claimed purposes, and for many reasons a terrible mistake. Horrible wrongs were inflicted on the most innocent; children removed from their families, stripped of their cultures, forbidden their languages, and held against their will. It does not follow that those who held such mistaken ideas deserve no credit or recognition for other ideas and achievements in which they were right.

We honour historical figures for their achievements and not because we approve of everything else that they did or the conventional beliefs of their times. Macdonald and most of his contemporaries did not believe that women should have the vote, although he unsuccessfully sought the franchise for indigenous men. By honouring him with a statue portraying him pleading a case in Courtroom Number 1 of the Picton Courthouse, we honour his founding of Canada. We do not honour every wrong-headed or, by our values, evil idea that he may have held or in ignorance accepted.

On the other hand, if Council is convinced that no historical villainy should go unpunished, it must be time to change the name of Picton. That name honours Lieutenant- General Sir Thomas Picton because he was the most senior British officer to die at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. His previous work was much less noble. The conqueror of several Spanish islands in the Caribbean, he was appointed the governor of Barbados. There he enforced the law with the assistance of torture and the random killings of black slaves. He also made a fortune in the slave trade and then returned to England. He was charged with torture of a 14-year-old girl, who survived to testify, and Picton was convicted in the Court of Kings Bench. The Privy Council allowed his appeal on the doubtful grounds that torture was still legal under Spanish law which was applied in Barbados notwithstanding his own conquest of the island for the English Crown. There you have a villain with real blood on his hands.

Richard B. Jones, B.A.Sc., LL.B., LL.M., P.Eng.

Page 77 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #5.11 Ms. Emily Cowan November 9, 2020 Page 4

In “The Uses and Abuses of History” Margaret MacMillan reminds us that history should teach us humility and scepticism. “One of history’s most useful tasks is to bring home to us how keenly, honestly and painfully, past generations pursued aims that now seem to us wrong or disgraceful.” Remember that in 1928, the Supreme Court of Canada held that women were not “persons” for the purposes of the British North America Act and, therefore, could not be appointed to the Senate. The Privy Council reversed that decision. In quite recent times, it was widely assumed that women and blacks could not make good engineers or doctors. And it was an official in the government of MacKenzie King who infamously wrote in reference to Jewish refugees fleeing Nazi Germany that “None is too many.” And in 1939, the M.S. St Louis was turned away sending 900 refugees back to Germany, at least 254 of whom consequently died in the gas chambers. Between 1933 and 1945, Canada accepted fewer refugees than any other Western nation.

We should leave the sculpture of John A. Macdonald where it is and learn to see it as what it is; no more and no less. We can remember and learn from both the good and the bad in the stories of the founding fathers of Canada. I remain

Yours truly

Richard B. Jones

Cc: Mayor Steven Ferguson

Dr. Marcia Wallace, Chief Administrative Officer

Todd Davis, Esq.

Council

Richard B. Jones, B.A.Sc., LL.B., LL.M., P.Eng.

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First, I would like to introduce myself. I'm Shannon Helm, I was born here and have lived in the County most of my life. I went to CML Snider and PECI, I worked at the Riv, the Waring House, the Hayloft, the Cider Company, the Duke of Marysburgh and Portabella. I taught for 5 years in a fly-in Cree community in Northern Ontario, where I fell in love and had two beautiful Cree daughters. I brought them home in 2012, and I have raised them in the county for the last 8 years. They both attended Athol public school, and in grade 4 my eldest, Claire, started in french immersion at PECI. This fall we have returned north where I am teaching again. My class is entirely Cree children. As a white mom and teacher, I am very aware of the ongoing impact that colonization has on Indigenous families. I am 47, and everyone my age here went to St. Anne's Residential School. Every kind of abuse happened at St. Anne's: physical, sexual and emotional. Many of the pedophiles at this school were imprisoned. This school also is famous for its use of the electric chair. 7 of my children's auties and uncles went to St. Anne's, and only 6 came home. My youngest daughter, Charlotte is named after her uncle Charlie, whose body was repatriated from St. Anne's Residential School just days before her birth in 2011. One day when Claire was in grade 4 and attending the after school club at the library, we walked together past the statue of JAM at the Armoury. She turned and asked me if I thought that he would want to kill her too. This question still haunts me. I am very grateful that she gave voice to her thoughts, that we were able to discuss it. It was a wakeup call to me as a white parent of Indigenous girls to be more aware of the public messages that are silently speaking to my children in our community. Shortly after the statue was removed for cleaning and storage. The following fall the library began hosting its speakers series and it felt to me that it would stay in storage. However, instead it was reinstalled at the library. This spring I wrote a petition asking for the statue to be removed and put in storage until a proper public consultation could be done. To my knowledge, my petition was ignored, though I deputated to the group tasked with forming the Working Group. In addition to sharing the petition with them, I pointed out that the public surveys were troubling to me. I didn't want the decision to rest on popular opinion. I wanted the decision to be made by a well informed WG, following a mandate of truth and reconciliation. My hope was that the surveys would be used to see where public education was needed most. I also recommended using the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls National Inquiries Final Report as a guiding text. Commissioner Robinson of the MMIWG National Inquiry wrote in the preface of the report: "So what are we non-Indigenous Canadians to do now? We must acknowledge our role and we must become actors in the rebuilding of this nation. We must acknowledge that the crisis of violence against Indigenous women and girls has been centuries in the making, and its root cause is colonialism, which runs deep throughout the foundational fabric of this country. We are here now because of years and years of decisions and actions that built Canada, all while robbing Indigenous Peoples, and especially women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA peoples, of their humanity, dignity and ultimately their lives. It is genocide. We must be active participants in decolonizing Canada. We must challenge all institutions, governments and agencies to consciously and critically challenge the ideologies that govern them. We must critically examine our systems of laws and governance to identify how they exclude and oppress Indigenous Peoples."

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If the term “decolinize Canada” makes you feel uncomfortable, you should take some time to read this report; then look at some of the biggest social movements in the last ten years: Idle No More, Occupy Wall Street, Standing Rock, Me Too, the Wet'suwet'en Protests that shut down our railways, the Landback Protests that are going on in Hamilton, the Mi'kmaq fisheries protests that have shocked us most recently, and Black Lives Matter. They are all grassroots movements calling out for an end to colonial violence. Consider how many activists have been calling for decolonization of our institutions. Even consider the 1000 people who showed up to lie down on Main Street in Picton this spring in solidarity. Think of the people in our country who are fighting to be seen, who are asking for their history to be known, for their experience of colonialism to be a part of our national experience of colonialism. As a Loyalist community, we must come to terms with our colonial past if we are ever to dream of becoming a safe and inclusive community. We may no longer be a “proud” Loyalist town; but we will still be a Loyalist town. The truth is you can't erase history. Moving a statue to create safe community spaces, erases nothing; but it shows respect for the survivors of genocide and systemic racism. It signals to Black, Indigenous People of Colour that our community is listening to their experiences. As the WG listened to deputations and conducted public surveys, I was impressed to learn that in my 95% white community, 40% of community members that wrote in to Have Your Say wished that the statue would be removed. I take heart in that number. To me it says that only 60% of county residents are in need of cultural education and/or empathy workshops. As an educator, and as a county girl who loves her community, I organized an art show in the windows downtown at the beginning of October. It was called, “Intersections: Anti-Racist Conversations on John A Macdonald”. I was impressed with the enthusiastic response from both businesses and artists: 27 local artists displayed work in 21 storefronts. I never asked anyone twice. All of the artists volunteered their work, all of the businesses donated the use of their windows. As I walked the Main Street that weekend, I was impressed by the number of people that came out, and I was impressed by their effective social distancing, but I was most impressed by their conversations, by their tears, by the way people were stepping back and considering our shared history in a different light. This art show is now online. The work from the artists is both beautiful and thoughtful, disturbing and truthful. It speaks loudly to how downtown businesses feel about the statue of JAM. It speaks loudly to defining the role of public art. It speaks loudly to our community about the history of Canada through many different lenses. It speaks loudly about Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. It speaks loudly about the systemic racism in Canada. It speaks loudly about Residential School and the abuse and deaths of indigenous children. It is my understanding that public art is meant to be a celebration of shared values. I think that the numbers show that the values that this statue stand for are not shared by the community as a whole. For me, the statue of JAM is not only a celebration of a man who legislated genocide, through the residential school system (and to be clear, he didn't invent residential schools, he legislated them), the clearing of the plains through the formation of the NWMP (now known as the RCMP) and his policies of starvation, the hanging of Indigenous leaders, the banning of the potlatch, and the implimentation of the pass system; this statue is also, for me, a symbol of colonialism, the patriarchy, and white supremacy. I personally do not share any of these values. I doubt anyone in this meeting would admit to sharing these values. And yet this statue still stands. It has stood through two Final Reports of National Inquiries into the experiences of indigenous

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people, and it has stood through this community consulation. At what point will this Council take leadership and remove it from our public space? I will conclude with a few words on Truth and Reconciliation. I have heard it said that since the TRC did not list the removal of statues as a Call to Action, that we should not feel it necessary to remove JAM from Main Street. I have always looked at truth and reconciliation like this: it is the work of Indigenous people to tell their truth, and it is the work of non-indigenous people to reconcile. And we can see how important these colonial statues are for white people. They are so important that many white people would suggest that our community ignore the very real systemic harm that Macdonald’s policies have on Indigenous people to this day. For me it is a great heartache to reflect on why my fellow county residents feel fine turning a blind eye to genocide. I hope that Council sits heavy with these truths, and shows leadership and vision, as we try to actualize an anti-racist community. Taking down a statue because we are recognizing the truth of the impact that this man and his policies had, and has, on Indigenous people, has a feeling of reconciliation to me. But to be clear, it is only a baby step towards true reconciliation. It is a gesture. A gesture that speaks loudly that all are welcome here, that we would like everyone to feel safe in our community spaces. It is a start down a long path to reconciliation, and I hope that this Council takes more than baby steps down that path. Shannon Helm

Art Exhibit - http://intersects.ca./

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REPORT

TO: Mayor and Members of Council

FROM: Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee

Written by Noah Lister-Stevens, Policy Advisor and Emily Cowan, Community Programs Supervisor

DATE: November 17, 2020

REPORT: CSP-57/2020

______

SUBJECT: Report of the Heritage Advisory Committee on the "Holding Court" Working Group Recommendations ______

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The purpose of this report is to provide Council with a summary and context of the process by which the "Holding Court" Sir John A Macdonald Working Group and the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee submitted their recommendations on the future of the "Holding Court" statue on Picton Main St. This report also provides Council with the considerations for potentially implementing the amended recommendations carried by PEHAC at their last meeting, and as set out below.

STAFF RECOMMENDATIONS

1. THAT the report of Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (hereafter PEHAC) and the enclosed report of the 'Holding Court' John A. Macdonald Statue Working Group (hereafter Working Group) be received; and

PEHAC RECOMMENDATIONS

2. THAT the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (hereafter PEHAC) recommend to Council to acknowledge the Working Group recommendation for removal of the Holding Court Statue of Sir John A Macdonald (hereafter statue) from Picton Main St., and;

3. THAT while a location for it to be removed to has not been specified, PEHAC supports the assumption of the Working Group that the statue would be removed to storage for later consideration, and;

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4. THAT further consideration and public engagement be undertaken on the future of the statue for permanent removal or a more appropriate alternate location on either private or public property, and;

5. THAT PEHAC recommends such further consideration and public engagement and final decision on permanent removal or alternate location occur no later than September 2022, and

6. THAT PEHAC recommends developing a public art policy by the end of 2021 for the future display of any public installations or pieces of art, that reaffirms Prince Edward County's commitment to anti-racist attitudes and to inclusiveness of marginalized peoples in its community, and;

7. THAT PEHAC supports private ventures or pursuing efforts of its own or the Municipality to greater showcase indigenous art and culture (e.g. those of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte), and;

8. THAT PEHAC supports the recommendation of the Working Group to obtain a formal legal opinion prior to temporary or permanent removal, and;

9. THAT, should the removal of the statue prove unworkable (e.g. due to legal or other considerations), PEHAC supports the Working Group’s agreed second- highest ranked choice to modify the statue in its existing location.

ANALYSIS:

Following growing community concern about the "Holding Court" Sir John A. Macdonald statue and its location, and following public deputations to PEHAC in late 2019, the Mayor and CAO commissioned the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (PEHAC) to create a Working Group. The group was specifically formed to address the question of what should be done with the "Holding Court" statue, and they were to provide their recommendation(s) to PEHAC for review.

On October 28, 2020 the Working Group submitted its recommendation to PEHAC:

"Remove the Holding Court statue of Sir John A Macdonald from Picton Main St. While a location for it to be removed to has not been specified, the Working Group voted with the assumption that the statue would be "Remove[d] to storage for later consideration", and not be relocated on public property. Should PEHAC support this recommendation, the Working Group would encourage that PEHAC suggest a more appropriate location at the next session of Council. The Working Group also recommends that PEHAC consider the ancillary options considered in its recommendation to Council. These are:

• Developing a public art policy for the future display of any public installations or pieces of art, that reaffirms Prince Edward County's commitment to anti- racist attitudes and towards marginalized peoples in its community;

• Supporting private ventures or pursuing efforts of its own to greater showcase indigenous art and culture (e.g. those of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte),

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such as revenue-generating attractions located on Tyendinaga Mohawk territory.

Should the removal of the statue prove impossible (e.g. due to legal or other considerations), the Working Group agreed that their second-highest ranked choice, modify the statue, would be the next most appropriate outcome. Should PEHAC forward the Working Group's recommendation to remove the statue to Council, the Working Group recommends that municipal staff obtain a formal legal opinion regarding this recommendation in terms of the artist's rights as well as the donor agreement before the November 17, 2020 Special Council meeting."

The report detailing their process and ultimate recommendations, accompanies this report as Schedule A.

On October 28 and November 4, PEHAC met in two separate special sessions to consider the recommendation of the Working Group. In the first session, members of the Committee passed a motion to meet again the following week in order to have an opportunity to provide fellow committee members with a written response to the original Working Group's recommendation, and to have more time to consider the Working Group's recommendation.

In the second session, after amending motions were put forward and lost, PEHAC carried an amending motion as follows:

1. Receive the Working Group's report;

2. Recommend that Council "acknowledge" the Working Group's recommendation to remove "Holding Court";

3. Support the Working Group's assumption that the statue would be removed to storage for later consideration;

4. Suggest further consideration & public engagement be undertaken on the future of the statue for permanent removal OR a more appropriate location on public/private property;

5. Recommend that this consideration & engagement, as well as a final decision on the removal or alternate location of the statue, be completed by no later than September 2022;

6. Recommend developing a public art policy no later than the end of 2021 for the future display of any public installations or pieces of art, reaffirms Prince Edward County's commitment to anti-racist attitudes and to the inclusiveness of marginalized peoples in the community;

7. Support private ventures or pursuing efforts of its own or the Municipality to greater showcase indigenous art and culture (e.g. those of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte);

8. Support the recommendation of the Working Group to obtain a formal legal opinion prior to temporary or permanent removal; and

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9. Support, should the removal of the statue prove unworkable (e.g. due to legal or other considerations), the Working Group’s agreed second-highest ranked choice to modify the statue in its existing location.

Staff have supplied municipal legal counsel with the recommendations of both the Working Group and PEHAC in order for Council to receive a legal opinion, no later than November 13, for the Special Council Meeting on November 17, 2020.

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: On removing "Holding Court", the two principal costs would be those to safely remove the installation, and then to store it in a secure, temperate facility. Removing it is expected to cost approximately $5,000 - $8,000. Renting an appropriately sized unit (10' x 9', humidity controlled) at a local storage facility would cost approximately $120/month including HST. The County has already incurred some legal costs, at this time total legal costs for this project are unknown but it is estimated that these costs could reach $8,000 - $10,000 should the municipality retain legal council to negotiate with the donor and/or artist. Regarding the creation of a public art policy, while none of Prince Edward County's neighbouring and comparative municipalities (Grey County, Norfolk County, Brant County and West Nippissing) have public art policies staff suggest an estimated cost of $30-$50,000 for a third party to create a policy with input from stakeholders and the public within the timeline specified in PEHAC's recommendations. Other costs to consider may be the creation of a plaque which could be considered a "modification" to the installment. Based on interpretive plaques procured by the municipality in the recent past, the cost would likely be between $1500 - $2500. These are unbudgeted operating funds which will negatively impact the surplus deficit.

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RISKS: RISK RISK TYPE PROPOSED MITIGATION DESCRIPTION Removal of the Legal Remain in talks with all legal statue may prove stakeholders (the original donor The legally infeasible or Macdonald Project, Ruth Abernethy) give rise to a legal to understand their positions and course of action meet consultation requirements, ensure that each recommended option is reviewed by legal counsel prior to it being enacted, and thoroughly understand the municipality's legal obligations and liabilities in this matter. Removal of the Public/Stakeholder Reiterate publicly that the Working statue may prove Group solicited public consultation

unpopular with across multiple channels, that some residents residents had time to provide their input, and that there will be future opportunities to decide the fate of the statue should the option to modify it be selected.

CONSULTATION TO DATE:

Amanda Carter, Director of Finance

Chad Curtis, Deputy Clerk

Catalina Blumenberg, Clerk

CORPORATE STRATEGIC PRIORITY ALIGNMENT:

4. Livable Community – Create a community where all residents can work and afford to live

Removal or modification of the Holding Court statue will meaningfully address the concerns of engaged citizens, and underscore the municipality's commitment to public participation and anti-racism within its community.

COMMUNICATIONS:

To date public consultation and communications have been focused on community feedback on the future of the Holding Court statue on Picton Main Street. The

Page 86 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 outcome of the Special Council meeting will be communicated to the public and media through the use of public service announcements, posts to the corporate social media channels and on the municipality's website. Should further public consultation be required the municipalities Have Your Say website would be used to facilitate further community conversations and public education.

ATTACHMENTS:

Schedule A - Holding Court Working Group report to PEHAC

1. Donor Agreement (part of Working Group Report) 2. WG Terms of Reference (part of Working Group Report) 3. Public Suggestions (part of Working Group Report) 4. HCWG Options - Condensed (part of Working Group Report) 5. Conversations with City of Kingston (part of Working Group Report) 6. Public Emails to October 2 2020 (part of Working Group Report) 7. HCWG Ranked Votes by Member 8. Public Feedback after November 4 2020 9. Public Feedback from October 2 - October 28 2020

Authorizing Signatures:

Prepared by: Noah Lister-Stevens, November 9, 2020 Programs & Policy Analyst

Emily Cowan Community Programs Supervisor

Reviewed by: Todd Davis November 10, 2020 Director of Community Services, Programs and Initiatives

CAO Approval: Marcia Wallace November 10, 2020 Chief Administrative Officer

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REPORT

TO: Members of the Heritage Advisory Committee

FROM: "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald Statue Working Group - written by Noah Lister-Stevens - Policy and Programs Analyst, Emily Cowan - Community Programs Supervisor

DATE: October 27, 2020

REPORT:

______

SUBJECT: Recommendation of the "Holding Court" John A Macdonald Working Group ______

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY:

The purpose of this report is to provide the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (PEHAC) with a detailed account of the timeline and process of the "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald Statue Working Group, and considerations of its recommendation to remove the "Holding Court" statue from its location on Picton Main Street.

Working Group Recommendation:

Based on this vote, the "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald Statue Working Group's recommendation to PEHAC is:

Remove the Holding Court statue of Sir John A Macdonald from Picton Main St.

ANALYSIS:

Background

The Sir John A. Macdonald statue "Holding Court" installation was gifted to the Prince Edward County municipality on behalf of the group Friends of Macdonald (FOM) in 2015, and was created by artist Ruth Abernethy. The statue was gifted along with $10,000 in funds for future maintenance of the installation, as per a contractual donor agreement between FOM and the municipality (See Attachment 1).

The statue was moved to storage in 2019 after a change in ownership at the Picton Armoury, with the new owners paying for its relocation to the forecourt of the Picton Library. The statue's return in early 2020 became a catalyst for a community conversation that coincided with a national conversation about Sir John A.

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Macdonald's past, within the broader context of colonialism in Canada. Based on public request and interest the Prince Edward County Public Library curated a Speaker Series (Dr. Niigan Sinclair, Sarah Midanik, Kateri Lucier-Laboucan and Calvin Brook), that spoke of the need for projects which aim to restore Indigenous presence within communities. Other speakers were scheduled into March, but the COVID-19 pandemic caused the series to be cancelled due to public health measures.

To respond to growing community concern about the Macdonald statue and its location and at the request of the public through deputations to PEHAC in late 2019, the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (PEHAC) at their July 2, 2020 meeting struck the Holding Court statue Working Group with a Terms of Reference included as Attachment 2. As outlined in the Terms or Reference, the working group was to adhere to the principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, conduct public consultation, research and ultimately make an advisory recommendation to PEHAC about the "Holding Court" statue. PEHAC would, in turn, present the recommendation to Council who would render a final decision on the Sir John A. Macdonald Holding Court installation

The Working Group & Consultation

PEHAC agreed to include at least 2 of their own members, a citizen member as well as representatives from 4 stakeholder groups. In total, seven (7) voting members for the Working Group were selected, with Ken Dewar, chairperson of PEHAC, being selected to chair the working group as a non-voting member. The members representing these stakeholder groups were ratified by PEHAC per the Terms of Reference. The Holding Court Working Group consisted of:

1. PEHAC members - Councilor John Hirsch and Brendan O'Connor,

2. All Welcome Here (PEC anti-racist non-profit group) - Judith Burfoot

3. Museum Advisory Committee; R John Garside

4. Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte; Councilor Josh Hill and Tracey Gazley, (representing1 vote)

5. Citizen member - Fern Martins

6. Macdonald Project - David Warrick, representing the group that originally donated the statue

The Working Group met for the first time on August 4, 2020 and met a total of nine (9) times, with the final meeting on held October 20, 2020. Following a period of establishing its procedures for deputations and establishing the channels for public input, the Working Group began taking deputations and soliciting public consultation in late August. The public had the opportunity to email, write, telephone and/or, participate via the municipality's Have Your Say public engagement platform in giving comments and offering suggestions, and finally through providing deputations to the Working Group directly. A sign was affixed to the statue informing the public that there was a public consultation in progress. Working Group members were also permitted to offer their own deputations and/or invite a speaker. Deputations and meeting notes were submitted to PEHAC for inclusion in their agenda. Staff would Page 90 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 distribute all public input received by email, telephone or letter on a weekly basis to the Working Group. The public consultation portion of the project ended on October 2, 2020 at 9am.

Ultimately, staff received hundreds of comments and suggestions on Have Your Say, over 160 emails, 3 physical letters, one phone call, and a dozen deputations from experts, working group members and citizens.

Between members of the public, invited deputations, and working group members, many suggestions concerning Holding Court were offered. Beyond the immediate "keep the statue" or "remove the statue", other options suggested included (See Attachment 3 for full list of recommendations offered by the public):

• Adding a contextual plaque to the statue, either giving a more balanced account of the life of Sir John A Macdonald, or explaining the process by which the Working Group chose to keep the statue;

• Replacing the statue with that of an indigenous person who more appropriately represents the values Prince Edward County stands for;

• Relocating the statue to a more appropriate venue, namely the County Courthouse, Shire Hall, the Museum, etc.;

• Erecting anti-vandalism measures around the statue, such as video surveillance, etc.

In addition, several ancillary options were suggested that would make Prince Edward County's stance on these issues clearer, notwithstanding whatever decision was made concerning the statue. These included:

• Supporting private ventures or pursuing efforts of its own to greater showcase indigenous art and culture (e.g. those of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte), such as revenue-generating attractions located on Tyendinaga Mohawk territory.

The Decision

The Working Group decided to evaluate these recommendations according to a set of criteria, voted upon by its members in October (Included in Attachment 4). These criteria stated that the recommendation should:

1. Be guided by the 10 Principles of Truth and Reconciliation and Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action;

2. Ensure that the decision/recommendation made will stand & be stood by for the foreseeable future;

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3. Be made in awareness of the legal obligations of the municipality, including the artists’ rights; and

4. Reflects the values of the community members of Prince Edward County, is inclusive of the diverse voices of disenfranchised peoples, and reflects the three main principles of Haudenosaunee law: Ka’nikonh’ri:io (commitment, respect and responsibility), Skénnenkowa (the ability to resolve issues, love, and gratitude), and Ka’satsténhsera (generosity and collective thinking).

From among the various options suggested by members of the public, and group members themselves, the Working Group narrowed the options that they would vote upon into five main categories (Also contained in Attachment 4):

A) Keep the statue as is Keep the statue as-is.

B) Remove the statue Remove to storage for later consideration – no location identified

C) Relocate the statue If working group members selected this option, staff would examine the feasibility of the various relocation options in their report to PEHAC/Council, and the public would be consulted on which viable options they would most prefer.

D) Replace the statue If working group members selected this option and provided further direction on theme, staff would engage a group of stakeholders to come up with ideas/suggestions and the public would be consulted before final decisions were made.

E) Modify the Statue If working group members selected this option and provided direction as to the type of modification recommended, staff would engage a group of stakeholders to provide the detail (wording for a plaque, website content as a catalyst for conversation) and the public would be consulted before a final modification was made.

The Working Group members agreed to select one of the above options to recommend to PEHAC.

The Working Group voted on October 20th, with the majority of members recommending that the municipality remove the Holding Court statue from Main Street Picton.

Votes were cast via an anonymous process, where members would rank all five choices in order of their preference. The results of the vote are displayed below, with the number of votes for each option shown below the percentage of votes for that preference in each option.

Total 1st Choice 2nd Choice 3rd Choice 4th Choice 5th Choice Average

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Remove 57.14% 14.29% 0.00% 14.29% 14.29% 3.86 / 5 (B) 4 1 0 1 1

28.57% 14.29% 14.29% 42.86% 0.00% Modify (E) 3.29 / 5 2 1 1 3 0

Relocate 0.00% 28.57% 57.14% 14.29% 0.00% 3.14 / 5 (C) 0 2 4 1 0

Replace 0.00% 28.57% 28.57% 14.29% 28.57% 2.57 / 5 (D) 0 2 2 1 2

Keep as-is 14.29% 14.29% 0.00% 14.29% 57.14% 2.14 / 5 (A) 1 1 0 1 4

Working Group Recommendation:

Based on this vote, the Holding Court Statue Working Group's recommendation to PEHAC is:

Remove the Holding Court statue of Sir John A Macdonald from Picton Main St.

While a location for it to be removed to has not been specified, the Working Group voted with the assumption that the statue would be "Remove[d] to storage for later consideration", and not be relocated on public property. Should PEHAC support this recommendation, the Working Group would encourage that PEHAC suggest a more appropriate location at the next session of Council.

The Working Group also recommends that PEHAC consider the ancillary options considered in its recommendation to Council. These are:

CONSULTATION TO DATE: Extensive public consultation undertaken by the Working Group via the County's Have Your Say website (haveyoursay.thecounty.ca), email, telephone letter and

Page 93 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 deputation. The City of Kingston's cultural heritage department was also consulted by County staff and the Working Group Chair regarding their own experience of undertaking a similar project regarding the legacy of Sir John A Macdonald in Kingston. (See Attachment 5). FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS: The principal financial consideration would be the cost of removing the statue. While a precise quote has yet to be obtained, the relocation costs for moving the statue from storage to Main St. were roughly $15,000-$20,000. A similar cost is estimated for removing the statue outright, not including the cost of storage or legal counsel. Costs related to modification of the statue would depend on the nature of the modification (e.g. the cost of a plaque; preparing another piece of artwork, etc.), Costs may be somewhat mitigated by pursuing available grants at the provincial or federal level, or by crowdsourcing a portion of the necessary funding (given the level of passion surrounding the fate of Holding Court, and should Council and staff deem it appropriate to do so). RISKS: RISK RISK TYPE PROPOSED MITIGATION DESCRIPTION Removal of the Legal Remain in talks with all legal statue may prove stakeholders (the original donor The legally infeasible or Macdonald Project, Ruth Abernethy) give rise to a legal to understand their positions and course of action meet consultation requirements, ensure that each recommended option is reviewed by legal counsel prior to it being enacted, and thoroughly understand the municipality's legal obligations and liabilities in this matter. Removal of the Public/Stakeholder Reiterate publicly that the Working statue will likely Group solicited public consultation

prove unpopular across multiple channels, that with some residents had time to provide their residents input, and that there will be future opportunities to decide the fate of the statue should the option to modify it be selected.

RELEVANT POLICY/BY-LAW: This recommendation complies with By-Law 92-2020, being a By-Law to approve the Terms of Reference of the Heritage Advisory Committee.

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COMMUNICATIONS:

PEHAC's recommendation will be provided to Council at a Special Council meeting on November 17, 2020 at 6pm through an on-line forum and livestreamed on the municipal You Tube channel. The staff report will be included in the meeting agenda prior to the meeting and will be available to the public at that time.

CONSULTATION

Clerk - Catalina Blumenberg

Deputy Clerk - Chad Curtis

City of Kingston Cultural Heritage Dept. - Colin Wiginton and Jennifer Campbell

ATTACHMENTS:

1. Holding Court Statue Donor Agreement

2. Holding Court Statue Working Group Terms of Reference

3. Recommendations from the public

4. Condensed Recommendations and Decision-making Criteria

5. Memo - Conversations with City of Kingston staff regarding public consultation experiences

5. Public feedback received by staff and through Have Your Say (deputations have already been provided to PEHAC https://owa.pecounty.on.ca/owa/

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THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF PRINCE EDWARD

BY-LAW NO. 3587-2015

A BY-LAW TO AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR AND CLERK TO ENTER INTO A PUBLIC ART DONATION AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF PRINCE EDWARD DAVID WARRICK AS AGENT AND TRUSTEE OF THE MACDONALD PROJECT

WHEREAS pursuant Section 10 of the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c. 25, as amended, a single-tier municipality may provide any service or thing that the municipality considers necessary or desirable for the public;

AND WHEREAS the Council of the Corporation wishes to accept the gift of the Abernethy sculpture of John A. Macdonald entitled "Holding Court";

AND WHEREAS the Council for the Corporation of the County of Prince Edward desires to enter into a Public Art Donation Agreement with David Warrick as Agent and Trustee of The Macdonald Project, as attached hereto as Schedule 'A' to this by-law.

NOW THEREFORE the Council of the Corporation of the County of Prince Edward enacts as follows;

1. THAT the Public Art Donation Agreement, substantially in the form attached hereto as Schedule 'A' to this by-law between The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward and David Warrick as Agent and Trustee of The Macdonald Project be and the same is hereby approved.

2. THAT the Mayor and the Clerk be and are hereby authorized and directed to execute the said Public Art Donation Agreement.

3. THAT the provisions of this by-law shall come into force and effect on the day of final passing thereof.

Read a first, second and third time and finally passed this 9th day of June, 2015.

K"irn White, CLERK

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PUBLIC ART DONATION AGREEMENT

This Agreement made this 9th day of June, 2015

BETWEEN:

THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF PRINCE EDWARD (hereinafter called the "County")

-and-

DAVID WARRICK as agent and trustee of THE MACDONALD PROJECT an unincorporated association (hereinafter called the "Donor']

WHEREAS the Municipal Council of the County, at its meeting on March 25,2015, approved the recommendation Motion CW-69-2015 to accept the donation by the Macdonald Project of a sculpture of Sir John A. Macdonald titled "Holding Court" subject to satisfactory planning and completion of design and installation requirements;

AND WHEREAS the proposed sculpture is a public art donation intended as a monument to recognize Sir John A. Macdonald within the Quinte Region in the year of the 200th Anniversary of Sir John A. Macdonald's Birthday and to contribute to the historical rejuvenation of Picton Main Street;

AND WHEREAS The Municipal Council of the County approved that the proposed location for the sculpture be on private property in front of The Armoury at 206 Picton Main Street, subject to obtaining a suitable Easement Agreement with the private property owner for public enjoyment of the sculpture;

NOW THEREFORE IN CONSIDERATION OF THE MUTUAL COVENANTS HEREIN CONTAINED AND THE PROViSION OF OTHER GOOD AND VALUABLE CONSIDERTION (THE RECEIPT AND ADEQUACY OF WHICH IS ACKNOWLEDGED) THE PARTIES HERETO HAVE AGREED AS FOLLOWS:

1. DEFINITIONS

In this Agreement, the following definitions will apply:

"Artist" means Ruth Abernethy of Wellesley, Ontario, Canada, who was retained by the Donor to design and fabricate the Sculpture;

"Final Acceptance" means final acceptance of the Work in accordance with Section 10;

"Gift" means the donation of the Sculpture as set out in Section 2 of this Agreement;

"Lands" means the specific property identified as the preferred location of 206 Picton Main Street which is privately owned and over which the County has a specific Easement Agreement for the Sculpture only as per Schedule "A".

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"Notice of Completion" means notice given pursuant to Section 10;

"Sculpture" means the artwork entitled "Holding Court" which is a three-dimensional bronze rendering of Sir John A. Macdonald;

"Sculpture Location" means the location of the sculpture on the Lands as defined in Section 3 and on Schedule "A"; and

"Work" includes the design, fabrication and installation of the Sculpture and any required landscaping as a result of preparing the Lands at the Sculpture Location.

2. GIFT

(a) The Donor hereby agrees to donate to the County, subject to terms as noted in 2 (b) on July 1, 2015, the Sculpture, which is to be designed, fabricated, shipped and installed at no cost to the County, for the purposes of serving as a piece of public art to be displayed on private property at the Armoury, 206 Main Street Picton.

(b) The County shall accept such gift from the Donor upon approval:

(i) That the design and installation of the sculpture base meets engineering and materials standards for the size and weight of the sculpture and that the landscaping design and installation meet appropriate standards to mitigate potential drainage, maintenance and safety issues; and

(ii) All ground preparation, landscaping and installation of the sculpture are completed prior to registration of the easement and acceptance of the donation of the Sculpture by the County.

(c) Notwithstanding the above, the Donor in its sole discretion, may terminate this agreement at any time before delivery of the Sculpture to the County and is under no obligation to donate the Sculpture to the County if, in its sole discretion, the Donor is not able to do so, the location changes and is not acceptable to the donor, or for any other reason.

3. SCULPTURE LOCATION

(a) Subject to a separate registered Easement Agreement between the County and the Owner, currently Baker and Company Limited, the Sculpture shall be located at "The Armoury", 206 Picton Main Street, Picton as per Schedule "A" attached landscape design.

(b) The intention is that the Sculpture location be a permanent location. The Donor recognizes the limited possibility of an unforeseen event in which the Armoury site (206 Picton Main St) becomes either unsafe (i.e. a risk to the public or the integrity of the Sculpture itself), or legally untenable. In the unlikely need to re-Iocate the Sculpture, the Artist shall be consulted, and be required to approve the new location. The Donor currently owns the Sculpture as a work for hire and with this document is transferring that ownership to the County. However, the Artist shall retain perpetual rights under Canadian law that pertain to artistic expression, including the setting and manner in which this work of art is displayed (e.g. section 28.2 of the Copyright Act of Canada). Any modification to a painting, sculpture or engraving is deemed to prejudice the author. For those types of works, no evidence of actual prejudice is required under the 21Page Page 98 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

Copyright Act of Canada (cf. David Vaver, Intellectual Property Law: Copyright, Patents, Trade-Marks, 2nd ed (Toronto: Irwin Law, 2011) at 209.)

4. DESiGN PROCESS

The Donor agrees that the Sculpture to be donated to the County is in substantial conformity with the Proposal and the Design and Installation guidelines attached hereto as Schedule "8". The Donor agrees to notify the County immediately of any issues or concerns that arise with regards to the Proposal, Design and Installation guidelines attached hereto.

5. COUNTY'S RESPONSIBILITIES

The County shall:

(a) Maintain appropriate insurance coverage for theft, vandalism and public liability following Final Acceptance of the Sculpture (refer to Section 10) and as per the Easement Agreement;

(b) Ensure that the Easement Agreement for the use of private property for the Sculpture Location is in effect; and

The County will make available, at reasonable times, County staff members for the purpose of any necessary consultation with the Donor prior to installation.

6. COSTS OF DONOR

(a) The Donor undertakes to complete the Work at his sole risk and expense, without any contribution by the County towards the Work except as otherwise specifically provided in this Agreement. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing or any other provision of this Agreement the Donor shall pay all costs associated with:

(i) preparation and review of the Proposal, including evaluation by a certified professional or agency;

(ii) design and fabrication of the Sculpture;

(iii) transportation and temporary storage of the Sculpture;

(iv) ground preparation, landscaping; drainage mitigation, maintenance and safety issues;

(v) installation of the Sculpture and necessary Work to complete the installation to meet guidelines as in Schedule "8"; and

(vi) anything else that is incidental or ancillary to any of the aforesaid and any other related cost that may arise as a result of the Agreement and the proper fabrication, transportation, installation and completion of the Work.

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(b) The Donor shall be responsible for contracting for the construction of landscaping features at the Sculpture Location in consultation with the property owner at the Lands. The Donor shall be responsible for the cost of said construction, required liability, liability and theft or damage insurance and safety and this shall be completed at no cost to the County.

(c) The Donor shall contribute $10,000 towards the long term care and maintenance of the Sculpture at the time of Final Acceptance of the Sculpture. These funds shall be kept in trust by the municipality specifically for this purpose.

7. RIGHT OF OWNERSHIP AND USE

(a) The Donor hereby represents and warrants that:

(i) to the best of its knowledge and belief, the Sculpture is solely the result of the Artist's creative efforts and that the Artist has created the Work;

(ii) the Artist has transferred all right title and interest in the Sculpture to the Donor and as a result, the Donor is the lawful owner of the Sculpture and enjoys all right, title to and interest in the Sculpture, including but not limited to all copyrights in the Sculpture;

(iii) that the Sculpture is not encumbered by an debt, lien or charge;

(iv) to the best of its knowledge and belie( that said Sculpture does not, in any way, infringe on the rights of any third party; and

(v) that any recognition of funding or donations for the creation and/or installation of the Sculpture are the responsibility of the Donor and have been formally completed at the time of the unveiling.

(b) As of the date of Final Acceptance, and subject to the terms of this Agreement with respect to retention rights, the Donor hereby irrevocably and perpetually transfers to the County all rights of ownership, including any and all copyrights, in the Sculpture.

(i) It is understood that the Donor and the County do not have any right to infringe upon the rights of copyright of the design of the Sculpture attributed to the Artist and the Artist's Estate according to Canadian laws.

(c) The County also grants to the Donor the right to make two-dimensional reproductions, including but not limited to photographs of the Sculpture for their portfolio, media publicity, catalogues or other similar publications, which rights shall survive any termination of the Agreement.

(d) It is understood that the intention of the Macdonald Project is to disband as of December 31, 2015. At such time, any responsibilities or reporting that must be completed (i.e., funding or donation obligations) remains the responsibility of the representatives of the Macdonald Project and shall not be assumed by the County.

(e) All rights granted to the County under this Agreement shall enure to the benefit of the County's successors and assigns.

8. ALTERATION OF THE SCULPTURE LOCATION OR OF THE WORK

The County recognizes the specific intention of the Donor in terms of the identified Location. Due to unforeseen circumstances:

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(a) The County shall make all reasonable efforts to notify the donor of any alteration of the Sculpture Location (as per Section 3(b)) that would significantly affect the intended character and appearance of the Sculpture, and shall consult with the Donor in the planning of any such alteration. The County agrees that it will not intentionally destroy, damage, alter or change the Sculpture in any way, however due to extenuating circumstances, the County is not precluded from removing the Sculpture from display as necessary for repair or to relocate; and

(b) If any major alterations to the Sculpture Location that would affect the intended character and appearance of the Sculpture are made without consultation with the Donor, the Donor, at its option, may remove or obliterate any public notice associating the Donor with the Sculpture.

9. PUBLICITY

The County has the right to publicize the Sculpture. The Donor may publicize in a positive manner the Sculpture, in art publications and in other media based on activities related to art and history.

10. FINAL ACCEPTANCE

(a) The County shall inspect and agree to the engineered design and installation of the sculpture ensuring:

(i) that the plan meets engineering and materials standards for the size and weight of the sculpture;

(ii) that the landscaping design and installation meet appropriate standards to mitigate potential drainage, maintenance, and safety issues;

(iii) that immediate feedback of any concerns and/or approval regarding the Engineered plans are provided to the Donor in writing before the Work commences; and

(iv) such Work shall be completed in consultation with County staff representatives who shall periodically inspect the work in progress in stages of: ground preparation; ground work; base work; landscaping and Sculpture installation as per Schedule "B".

(b) The Donor shall provide the County with a Notice of Completion certifying that all Work required of the Donor pursuant to this Agreement has been completed including the Installation as per Schedule "B" attached hereto.

(c) Final Acceptance of the Sculpture shall occur when the Sculpture has been delivered and installed at the Sculpture Location and County representatives ( i.e., the Commissioner of Engineering, Development and Works or designate) have inspected the Sculpture and landscaped viewing area and found that it has been installed in accordance with the terms and conditions as set out in this Agreement and the Commissioner has issued a letter to the Donor acknowledging the final acceptance ("Letter of Final Acceptance").

(d) The County shall have the sole authority to determine whether the Sculpture meets the requirements of this Agreement. If the County is not satisfied that the Sculpture meets the requirements of this Agreement, the County, in its sole discretion, may refuse to accept the Gift with no cost or liability to the County whatsoever.

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(e) The Final Acceptance of the Sculpture will result in the registering of the Easement Agreement with the owner at the Sculpture Lands on property title at which time the County will have taken on the rights and responsibilities as per Sections 5 and 7 of this Agreement.

11. WARRANTIES OF QUALITY AND CONDITION OF WORK

The Donor makes no representations or warranties as to the quality of the design and/or workmanship of the Sculpture and shall not be liable for any damages arising from any such defects in the design or fabrication of the Sculpture. The design and fabrications of the Sculpture is the sole responsibility of the Artist whose representations as to fitness and quality has been set out in a separate agreement with the Donor and may be relied upon by both the Donor and the County.

12. TITLE

Title to the Sculpture shall pass to the County upon Final Acceptance free and clear of any and all other interests and at no cost to the County.

13. REPUTATION

(a) The County agrees that it will not use the Sculpture or the Donor's name in a way which may bring the Sculpture or the Donor into disrepute.

(b) The Donor agrees that the Donor will not make reference to the Sculpture or reproduce the Sculpture, or any portion thereof, in a way that may bring the Sculpture or the County into disrepute.

14. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES

(a) Mutual Representations

Without limiting the generality of any other provision of the Agreement, each party represents to the other, and acknowledges that the other is relying on such representation in entering into this Agreement, as follows:

(i) it has the requisite power, authority and capacity to enter into this Agreement and to perform the obligations hereunder;

(ii) this Agreement has been duly authorized, executed, and delivered by it and constitutes a valid and binding obligation enforceable against it in accordance with its terms except as such enforcement may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency and other laws affecting the rights of creditors generally and except that equitable remedies may only be granted in the discretion of a court of competent jurisdiction; and

(b) Representations of the Donor

The Donor represents and warrants to the County, and acknowledges that the County is relying on such representations and warranties in entering into this Agreement as follows:

(i) there are no bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, receivership, seizure, realization, arrangement or other similar proceedings pending against, or being contemplated by the Donor or, to the knowledge of the Donor, threatened against the Donor;

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(ii) there are no actions, suits, proceedings, judgments, rulings or orders by or before any governmental authority or arbitrator, or, to the knowledge of the Donor, threatened against the Donor, that could have material adverse effect on the Donor of the Gift;

(iii) all requirements for the Donor to make any declaration, filing or registration with, give any notice to or obtain any licence, permit, certificate, registration, authorization, consent or approve of, any governmental authority as a condition to entering into this Agreement have been satisfied;

(iV) it and all of its employees, servants, agents, representatives, consultants and contractors and the respective workforce of each are fully qualified to perform the Work and/or perform obligations of the Donor under this Agreement and hold all requisite licences, rights and other authorizations required by law with respect thereto and all powers, capacities and authorities under governing legislation;

(v) it shall immediately notify the County about any damage or injury, including but not limited to personal injury and property damage, resulting out of the Work contemplated by the Agreement; and

(vi) the Donor shall notify the County immediately of any material change in the representations/warranties set out in subparagraphs (i) to (v) above.

(c) Should the Donor default on any of the representations or warranties set out in this Agreement, the County may, in addition to any other right to remedy otherwise available to it either at law or in equity, immediately terminate this Agreement, or refuse the Gift, or both.

15. WAIVER OR LIABILITY AND iNDEMNIFICATION

Neither party shall have any responsibility or liability for any damages, claims, actions, applications, suits, losses, injuries, including, but not limited to personal injury, of the other, its employees, servants, agents, representatives, consultants and contractors or to any person in the course of that person's entry onto or exit from the Lands in connection with the Work, and/or the Sculpture, or any damage that may be caused to any personal property of the other, its employees, servants, agents, representatives, consultants and contractors.

As per separate agreement with contractor, artist, and Land owner, the Donor shall remain responsible for specific conditions as set out in Section 14 above. The County shall be accountable for any liability or indemnification as a result of any funding agreements, agreement with the Artist or with the Land owner during installation of the Work.

16. INSURANCE

It shall be the sole responsibility of the Donor to determine what insurance coverage, if any, is necessary and advisable for its own protection and/or to fulfill its obligations under this Agreement. Any such insurance shall be maintained and provided at the sole expense of the Donor.

17. SUCCESSORS AND ASSIGNS

This Agreement, including all rights, privileges and benefits herein contained shall extend to, be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective heirs, administrators, successors and assigns.

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18. RESTRICTIONS ON ASSIGNMENT

None of the parties to this Agreement may assign this Agreement in whole or in part without the prior written consent of the other.

19. ACCESS AND PRIVACY

This Agreement and all schedules and attachments and any information provided pursuant to this Agreement are subject to the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c.M.56.

20. NOTICES

Any notices required or permitted to be provided hereunder shall be in writing and shall be addressed as follows:

To the County:

County of Prince Edward 332 Picton Main Street Picton ON KOK 2TO Attention: County Clerk

To the Donor:

The Macdonald Project c/o 6 Thorndale Cres. Toronto ON M8X2S8

Phone: 416231 6179 Attention: David Warrick, Chair

21.INVAUDITY OF PART NOT TO AFFECT REMAINDER

Every provision of this Agreement is intended to be severable. If all or any part of any term or provision hereof is illegal, invalid or unenforceable for any reason, such illegality, invalidity or unenforceability shall not affect the validity or enforceability of the remainder of this Agreement.

22. WAIVER

No omission or delay by either party in exercising any right, power or privilege hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof nor shall any single or partial exercise of such right, power or privilege preclude any other or further exercise thereof or of any other right, power or privilege. The rights and remedies herein provided are cumulative with and not exclusive of any rights or remedies provided by law or in equity.

23. NO PARTNERSHIP, TENANCY OR JOINT VENTURE

Noting in this Agreement shall be construed so as to constitute a relationship between the parties of employer/employee, agent, partners, joint ventures, co-owners, or otherwise as participants in a joint or common undertaking. Neither party, nor its employees, agents or representatives shall have any right, power or authority to act or create any obligation, express or implied, on behalf of the other.

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24. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws, and subject to the jurisdiction of the courts, of the Province of Ontario.

25. AMENDMENT OF AGREEMENT

With the exception of the extension of time referred to in sUbsection , this Agreement may be amended by the mutual consent of the parties. Any such amendment must occur through a written amendment agreement approved by the parties

26. COMPLETE AGREEMENT

This Agreement constitutes the complete and exclusive statement of the agreement between the parties, which supersedes all proposals, oral or written, and all other communications between the parties, relating to the subject matter of this Agreement.

27. INDEPENDENT LEGAL ADVICE

The Donor acknowledges having reviewed this Agreement and having been made aware of its right to obtain independent legal advice and has either obtained said legal advice or has chosen not to obtain legal advice and enter into this Agreement willingly and of its own accord.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have executed this Agreement by virtue of affixing the signatures of their respective proper officers and agents duly authorized in that behalf.

THE CORPO~TION OF THE COUNTY OF PRINCE EDWARD {fY' //-':;>/, 77. %f?/ - " / ,// Per: , ?/{,~. ? ,,(/, / Mayor obert Quaiff r IF 1// / / Per: di:7I'( /:/L-Ie Kim White, Clerk

orporated association

Per: David------~------Warrick, Member Agent and trustee on behalf of the Donor

Page 105 of9\Page 273 FOUNDATION NOTES; GENERAL NOTES: All WORK SHALL BE IN ACCORDANCE APPLICABLE STANDARDS/CODES; WlTH RELEVANT COOES AND GUIOELINES ALL DRAWlNGS AND ADOENDA ARE TO BE 1. ALL WORK AND MATERIALS SHALL COMPLY WITH THE ONTARIO BUILDING READ AS AND IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE 8" 0 SONO TUBE BELOW (TYP.) SPECIFICATiONS TOTAL 6 CURRENT EDITION. CONTRACTOR MUST REPORT ANY DISCREPANCIES TO THE ENGINEER FOR CONCRETE NOTES; RESOLUTION BEFORE COMMENCING THE 1 6' I 8'/ I~I WORK ANY CHANGES MUST BE APPROVED BY 1. ALL FOOTINGS SHALL REST ON NATURAL UNDISTURBED SOIL OR THE ENGINEER STRUCTURAL FILL CAPABLE OF SUSTAINING MINIMUM 2.100psfSOIL ~------~ ~ BEARING STRENGTH. ' ( , ( J 2. BEARING CAPACITY SHALL BE VERIFIED BY A QUALIFIED PERSON PRIOR r~/ ~/ ~ APPROX. FOOTPRINT TO CONCRETE POUR. OF STATUE 3. CONSULT A GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER IF ADVERSE SOIL CONDITIONS ARE I I ENCOUNTERED. I NOTE; I 4. PROTECT FRESHLY POURED CONCRETE FROM FROST OR FREEZING. DO LOCATE STATUE ANCHOR PRIOR TO CONCRETE NOT POUR CONCRETE ON FROZEN GROUND. ~ I PLACEMENT & INSTALL REINFORCING STEEL TO AVOID ~ 5. CONCRETE STRENGTH AT 28 DAYS SHALL BE 32MPa AND AIR ENTRAINED I CONFLICT WITH ANCHORS WITH 5·7% AIR CONTENT. MAXIMUM 3" SLUMP. 6. CONCRETE CONSTRUCTION SHALL CONFORM TO C.S.A A 23M SERIES. 7. CONCRETE COVER FOR REINFORCEMENT SHALL BE 70mm ± 10mm. I 8. REINFORCING STEEL SHALL CONFORM TO C.SA. STANDARD 630.18 GRADE r'--, (.--, (.--~ 400 (GRADE 60). 9. GRANULAR FILL TO BE GOOD QUALITY 'B' TYPE II OR CLEAR STONE, A DETAJL NO. ~L ______~L ______~~ ffi PLACED IN 12" (MAX.) LIFTS AND COMPACTED TO 98% OF STANDARD W B DWG. NO. - WHERE OETAILED PROCTOR MAXIMUM DRY DENSITY (SPMDD) 10. CONTRACTOR SHALL CHECK AND VERIFY ALL DIMENSIONS BEFORE 9' COMMENCEMENT OF WORK AND REPORT ANY DISCREPANCIES TO THE STAJMP ENGINEER. EDGE OF NEW 10" 11. CONTRACTOR TO LOCATE ANCHOR LOCATIONS AND DRY FIT STATUE CONCRETE SLAB PRIOR PERMANENTLY INSTALLING THE STATUE 12. QUIKCRETE HIGH STRENGTH ANCHORING EPOXY (AVAILABLE AT LOWES) OR APPROVED EQUAL. SHALL BE USED TO ANCHOR THE STATUE. FOLLOW ® ~2~UNDATION PLAN SUPPLIER SPECIFICATIONS FOR DRILLING AND CLEANING OF HOLE.

1" CHAMFER (TYP.) 10M BARS @ 12" O.C. 10M BARS@ 12" O.C. PROVIDE MIN. 1% POSITIVE TOP/BTM (TYP.) TOP/BTM (TYP.) DRAINAGE AWAY FROM SLAB (TYP.) DWG NAME: SIR JOHN A STATUE FOUNDATION COMPACTED GRANULAR B TYPE II 1"0 X 4" LG. SUITABLE ISSUED FOR PERMIT !CONSTRUCTiON OR CLEAR STONE WRAPPED IN ANCHOR COUPLER FILTER CLOTH (TYP.) PROJECT INFORMATiON:

Page 106 of 273 THE ARMOURY PRE·DRILLED HOLE 8"0 SONO TUBE (TYP.) MAIN STREET. PICTON ~ PREPARATION PER ' 6" EPOXY SUPPLIER SPECS. "",rue",' 1"0 X 4" LG. '------JIJL ""'JIJL 2·10M DOWELS (TYP.) I GALVANIZED ~Q&E ENGINEERING INC. ".n,;;'CIVIL-STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS COMPETENT UNDISTURBED 1f=: THREADED ROD SOIL EXTENSION b84 MONEYMORE ROAD. ROSLIN. ON .• O. (bI3) 101 • OIOb M. (blj) 813·2808 @ ~:?5UNDATION SECTION @ ANCHOR DETAIL qt/)1@qe·e"JU1eer~9.wm AGENDA ITEM #7.1 S1.1 NTS DATE 13·05·2015 DWG # SCALE AS NOTED 5-/ '\A 1'-

~L ______~ EXISTING CATCH BASIN North

EXISTING LAWN AREA

,------+----H--- 3 - CAPITAL ORNAMENTAL PEAR, 60MM

I _-;----l------l---i- APPROX. LIMIT OF AREA TO BE + RE-GRADED AND SODDED

PUBLIC EXISTING PARKING LOT LIBRARY ---~--~-SODDEDLAWNAREA

_-.-.li+- EXISTING SIDEWALK COMMERCIAL BLDG.

'-o------>,,--+----f-----I-+-- UMBRIANO PRECAST CONCRETE PAVERS, 16" WIDE BAND WITH RANDOM PATIERN ON COMPACTED GRANULAR BASE

1~~<7L------,--+--~-+----I-l-- SIR JOHN A MACDONALD STATUE, CONCRETE FOOTING AS PER Sir John A MacDonald STRUCTURAL ENGINEERS Statue - Phase One Statue DRAWINGS FACED WITH SQUARE / CUT FLAGSTONE, BEIGE COLOUR Courtyard _\-r.~c=-H ".J Main St, Picton ON ~--+---\----I+--SPRAYED WATER LINE LOCATION Page 107 of 273 Scale: Ya" = 1'-0" --_/ '! ------L----'------.--L------\--~---,.L---J,rD~r,ATO~ December 2014 ~,bO' 0" .' I- -@).o-.--~ PIN AND FLAG IN SIDEWALK 'HE======AGENDA ITEM #7.1 EXISTING MUNICIPAL SIDEWALK I SC~~Isc~~rJ;Y2~TH I • Landscar.e Architects and Contractors. King~tcJn 5·n-3772· 1181 Belleville 969-7992 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

The "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald Statue Working Group

Terms of Reference

Mandate

The Working Group will advise the Heritage Advisory Committee in their recommendation to Council in regards to the current installation in Picton of the "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald statue. The Working Group will follow the guidelines of Truth and Reconciliation.

Goals/Purpose

The goals and purpose of the Heritage Advisory Committee Working Group are to:

1. Follow the scope of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 10 Principles of Truth and Reconciliation.

2. Conduct research, carry out surveys and prepare documentation, as necessary, to assist the Heritage Advisory Committee in their recommendation to assist Council in their decision on the future of "The Holding Court" John A. Macdonald statue.

3. Assist staff to provide a report to Council by September 1, 2020, or as soon as feasible, outlining a recommendation for the future of the "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald statue.

Membership

1. Two (2), or more Heritage Advisory Committee Member(s). The Chair of the Working Group will be a member of the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee.

2. A representative(s) of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte

3. A representative(s) of All Welcome Here

4. A public representative determined by the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee.

5. A representative of the Sir John A. Macdonald Project

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6. A representative of the Museum Advisory committee member

7. Committee may terminate the appointment of any member without notice, and may add additional members up to a maximum of 10, as needed.

Roles

1. Members will actively participate, and provide support and expertise.

2. The Working Group will liaise with the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee. The working group members will serve as voting members and count towards meeting quorum for working group meetings.

Responsibilities of the Working Group

1. It is the responsibility of all appointed members to comply and work with County procedures, by-laws and Provincial legislation, with guidance from staff: a. Council’s Code of Conduct b. Ontario Heritage Act c. County Accountability and Transparency Policy d. County Procedural By-law e. Other applicable County by-laws and policies f. Municipal Act g. Planning Act h. Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act i. Municipal Conflict of Interest Act

2. The Working Group will make recommendations to Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee on the future of the current installation in Picton of the "Holding Court" John A. MacDonald statue.

3. The Working Group will utilize the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 10 Principles, and other relevant documents to guide its recommendations.

Term

The term of the Working Group will be until a decision is made by Council in respect to the future of the current installation in Picton of the "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald statue.

Staff Support

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Upon request from the Chair of the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee, staff support and resources may be provided to the Working Group with the approval of the CAO.

Reporting Relationship to Council

The Working Group will act as a resource to the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee and does not have any delegated authority. Recommendations for implementation will be provided to Council via a staff report to the Committee, then Council.

The Working Group will report to the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee.

The Working Group is intended to support Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee in their statutory role under the Ontario Heritage Act.

Finances

No member shall receive remuneration for services.

A member is entitled to reimbursement for any reasonable out-of-pocket expenses that have been pre-approved by the CAO or Council.

Meetings

The Working Group shall meet as required.

Should a public meeting be required, staff will provide support, on direction from the CAO.

Page 110 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

Public Recommendation Suggestions - Email, HYS, Phone, Letters

A) Keep the Statue 1. Keep the statue as-is. 2. And erect anti-vandalism protection around it. a. Cameras b. Fences 3. And set up a website to allow for the Statue to serve as a catalyst for conversation 4. And support efforts to showcase more indigenous art, culture & the relationship between Indigenous peoples & settlers throughout the County, particularly from the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte. a. Based on Tyendinaga Mohawk territory B) Remove the Statue 1. Relocate the statue to… a. The courthouse b. Shire Hall c. The Museum d. Storage 2. Sell it to a private citizen 3. Replace the statue with… a. A statue of an indigenous person/other figure i. Created from melting down/destroying the original statue b. A table that provides a public meeting space for the public to address issues of colonialism, racism, etc. c. A plaque about the statue i. Detailing Macdonald’s accomplishments and demerits in a fair, historical way ii. Detailing the process by which the Statue was removed and the reasons why 4. Return it to the Macdonald Group 5. And create a public art policy detailing County anti-racism efforts C) Modify the Statue 1. Add a contextual plaque a. Detailing Macdonald’s accomplishments and demerits in a fair, historical way b. Detailing the process by which the Statue was removed and the reasons why c. In three languages: French, Mohawk, English; add QR code that sends people to a website w. further details of the statue and Macdonald’s historical record. 2. Add another figure or statue a. In the witness box b. Next to it c. Across the street from it 3. Create a public art policy and examine the statue in light of it to see if it passes muster a. Examine the statue in light of the new policy

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Options for Recommendation - Holding Court Working Group

A) Keep the statue as is Keep the statue as-is.

B) Remove the statue Remove to storage for later consideration – no location identified

C) Relocate the statue WG members may select this option, staff would examine the feasibility of the various relocation options in their report to PEHAC/Council, and the public would be consulted on which viable options they would most prefer.

D) Replace the statue WG members may select this option and provide further direction on theme, staff would engage a group of stakeholders to come up with ideas/suggestions and the public would be consulted before final decisions were made.

C) Modify the Statue WG members may select this option and provide direction as to the type of modification recommended. Staff would engage a group of stakeholders to provide the detail (wording for a plaque, website content as a catalyst for conversation) and the public would be consulted before a final modification was made.

Ancillary Recommendations 1. Develop a public art policy for the future showcasing of Prince Edward County art. 2. Support efforts to showcase more indigenous art, culture & the relationship between Indigenous peoples & settlers throughout the County, particularly from the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte, based on the Tyendinaga Mohawk Community.

Criteria for Recommendation 1. Be guided by the Principles of Truth and Reconciliation and TRC Calls to Action 2. Ensure that the decision/recommendation made will stand & be stood by for the foreseeable future 3. The decision is made in awareness of the legal obligations of the municipality, including the artists’ rights 4. The recommendation reflects the values of the community members of Prince Edward County, is inclusive of the diverse voices of disenfranchised peoples, and reflects the three main principles of Haudenosaunee law: Ka’nikonh’ri:io (commitment, respect and responsibility), Skénnenkowa (the ability to resolve issues, love, and gratitude), and Ka’satsténhsera (generosity and collective thinking).

Page 112 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

MEMO

TO: Holding Court Working Group

FROM: Emily Cowan

DATE: October 20, 2020

______

SUBJECT: Consultation with City of Kingston staff regarding Your Stories Our Histories and Sir John A. 360⁰ ______

Ken Dewar, Chair of the Holding Court Working Group and Emily Cowan, staff support, had two conversations with staff from the City of Kingston regarding their public consultation projects, "Your Stories Our Histories" and "Sir John A. 360⁰ ". The intention was to understand their process for public consultation, the best practices they used and any advice they wished to provide to staff as the Holding Court Working Group embarked on their public consultation program.

Colin Wiginton, Cultural Director, Cultural Services - City of Kingston August 14, 2020 - Phone call: Ken, Emily and Colin

Jennifer Campbell, Manager, Cultural Heritage - City of Kingston August 20, 2020 - Phone call: Ken, Emily and Jennifer

The Working Group Chair, Ken Dewar and staff support, Emily Cowan approached Colin Wiginton in mid-August in order to understand how Kingston dealt with their "community conversation" about the legacy of Sir John A. Macdonald in the city. They were interested to hear about how Kingston approached their project, what sort of challenges they faced and what they would have done differently looking back.

The City of Kingston's approach was "grounded in public consultation", ensuring the public had ample opportunity to have their say about SJAM's legacy. Their public consultation goal was about "making space for other stories". The City also uses the Bang the Table platform, the same as our Have Your Say platform, they warned us that monitoring comments takes great effort and time. They used comment cards at public consultation events, although these were sparsely attended. Colin recommended that we also speak with Jennifer Campbell, Manager of Cultural Heritage for the City of Kingston.

Jennifer's reflections on their public consultation process included the obvious "pressure release" once their public engagement platform opened to the public. She cautioned that the Working Group needed to use "guiding language" to make sure our request for feedback was focused in order to be able to use the public feedback to help the Working Group meet their mandate. She also felt it was important to humanize the conversation, allow people to tell their story.

She offered various themes/questions they had discussed, such as "What does the statue mean and what is its purpose?", "How did it become a part of history - How do we tell the

Page 113 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 story of SJAM in the context of Kingston?", "Tell the complex history, not just the history" and "How do you build an inclusive history with perpetual discussion?"

She told us they looked at boundaries, should they limit feedback to the residents of the City of Kingston? They decided not to limit it to just residents because SJAM was/is a national debate.

Their goal was to draw attention to other stories, create "breathing space" to allow other voices to be heard, and to make the entire exercise reflective and not corrective.

End.

Page 114 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

"Holding Court" statue, Sir John A. Macdonald - Public Emails

From: Ruth Laliberte

Sent: June 29, 2020 10:33 PM

To: Chad Curtis

Subject: John A Macdonald statue

Hello Chad,

I have an abundance of concerns with the John A Macdonald statue that has found its way on the main street of Picton. This has always been an ongoing discussion within my group of peers, co workers, and friends since the statue was put up in 2015.

I'll start with what a statue means to me, and historically. A statue is put in place to honour or commemorate a certain important figure. It is a monument in their name, and everything they represent.

John A Macdonald was an important person in the development of the country we call Canada today, but what does that mean, exactly? The very foundation of Canada was built on the blood, sweat, and tears of marginalized groups. From the very beginning, when the French claimed it as "New France" it was a product of violent colonialism.

John A Macdonald was a firm believer in this colonization, going to great lengths to create the Canada he imagined - and that image was white. He created the Indian Act in 1876, which led to the mass enfranchisement of indigenious peoples. Children were ripped from their families and put into residential schools were they faced physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. The effects from these schools are still being seen today in indigenious communities through intergenerational trauma, substance abuse, mental illness, and extreme poverty. He also created the Chinese head tax, which was even criticized by a fellow politician as "racist and unjust". He actively played a role in keeping any POC below him, deeming them as "uncivilized" and "savages".

This is a stain on Canadian history that has since been acknowledged. But how sorry can we be if we continue to honour people who perpetuated these beliefs, and not only that, created the systems in which such atrocities are able to take place?

I understand that information is power, and learning from past mistakes is the only way to create a better, more inclusive future. Having a statue honouring a man who devoted his life and career as a lawyer and politican to wipe out an entire race of people and commit mass genocide is an embarrassment to my town and what we have been working hard to represent. We are an inclusive community that lets in thousands of tourists from all over the world year after year. What do they think when they see us honouring a man like this on our main street? Do they feel welcome? Do their children? How can we hang pride flags from pools but have statue of a man who advocated for a death sentence for gay people? How can we move forward in Truth and Reconciliation if we can't see these people for who they are and the role they played in our racist systems?

Page 115 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

Thank you for your time,

Ruth Laliberte

______

From: William Kennedy

Sent: June 30, 2020 3:09 PM

To: Chad Curtis

Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

Hello Chad

I'm a member and a volunteer with the Hastings County Historical Society. There has been discussion and emails among us regarding the current news surrounding the Prince Edward County Sir John A. Macdonald statue. The email below (slightly altered for clarification) was sent by me to the Society's Board of Directors a few days ago expressing my view on the subject. I thought it might be of interest to you in your deliberations.

In the early 1990s my wife and I visited the ancestral home of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, Virginia. Jefferson was a founding father of the United States and its two-term third president. He was also, like his predecessor George Washington, a slaveholder despite his belief that slavery was a "moral depravity" and a threat to the survival of the new country.

We live in a fast-changing world made increasingly faster by today's technology. A century from now (probably sooner) will we be removing physical reminders of today's leaders because despite other worthwhile achievements during their tenure they were slow to act on climate change? Obvious exceptions aside, judging people from another era against contemporary standards is a dubious business.

Rather than the out of sight out of mind approach, better to acknowledge the imperfectability of humanity and take the time to learn the whole story. For example, a statue may inspire a child to investigate the legacy it represents, something which might never have happened without that point of reference.

History is supposed to teach us lessons about our lesser selves in order to guide us toward a better future. Removing reminders of our failings is not a path in that direction. I see no reason why HCHS couldn't offer its support for keeping Sir John A. at his present PEC location.

Bill Kennedy

______

From:

Sent: July 3, 2020 1:17 PM

To: Chad Curtis ; 'Ken Dewar'

Page 116 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald Statue Question

Curtis: I am pleased to attach our comments and views on the current discussions.

I offer this as a person who has studied the life and times of Sir John A. Macdonald and have a long and deep interest in local history.

Richard Hughes

Mayor and Council

Municipality of Prince Edward County

Re. Discussion Concerning Statue of Sir John A. Macdonald

At the outset, we would strongly emphasize our personal rejection of all forms of racism and unfair and discriminatory treatment in our community. All persons must be treated on the basis of their individual character and attributes and have equal access to all services and opportunities.

We further believe strongly that positive and concerted efforts must be made at all levels of government to develop programs to identify and respond to systemic racism and personal racist attitudes and actions in our community.

We also believe in the importance of knowing and understanding the rich heritage of this region; the people who established our community and built it to its current strength and character over the past 200 years.

However, we reject completely the notion of removing, reducing or erasing any aspects of this rich history in the name of applying today’s standards of conduct on actions taken 150 or more years ago. History is exactly what it is – the good and the bad – it must be presented in its entirety and not reduced in any way to edit out those aspects that we now find unacceptable.

As regards the specific discussion on the statue of Sir John A. Macdonald, we would first ask the question: Is the information on the monument accurate? Second, is it complete in respect of the topic being addressed?

What we find the most objectionable is that the current discussion seems to completely overlook the total picture of Sir John A. Macdonald. His achievements for this country were and remain monumental – nobody in Canadian history has ever come even close to matching his personal achievements:

-He convinced the three Maritime colonies to come together with the Canadas to create one country. This was not their objective when they called the meeting at Charlottetown but he had a much greater vision.

-Macdonald drafted the 73 Resolutions which he took to London and convinced the British Parliament of adopt. They became the very structure and procedures of our current constitution through the British North America Act. The government we have today was drafted by Sir John A. Macdonald

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-He had the vision of bringing the West into Canada at a time when the U.S. was expanding west and there was talk of the west joining the Union. His national plan brought about the railway uniting Canada from coast to coast.

-Leading the country through its first decades, he developed the strong, democratic systems that we are so proud of today and can brag how great our country is.

These achievements not only must not be diminished by removing memorials to our founding father; they must be celebrated and recognized across the country. So little Canadian history and very little local history is taught in schools so it is of great importance to bring our history to the public through monuments, plaques and written material

But, Macdonald and his government did promote policies that are now generally taken to be unacceptable and discriminatory. These must not be overlooked or concealed, but must be included in the total picture of the man and his actions. Historians must ensure that the stories of our past are complete and accurate. We are intelligent enough to weigh and judge based on the complete history. But any efforts to diminish or conceal the complete history must not be accepted.

The monument to Sir John A. Macdonald in Picton tells one story of his life and that story is fully accurate and must be passed on to both residents and visitors. It is a part of Picton’s history. If some feel there are other stories that also must be brought to the public, this is another matter and they must be dealt with in their own right. Another plaque or a publication might be considered.

As a footnote: This topic of Sir John A. Macdonald’s statues was also considered in Kingston by the mayor and council and it was decided that no statues would be removed. Rather, “the city council is discussing ways to include some troubling facts of Macdonald’s past into the city’s public history record”. (Kingston Whig Standard June 22, 2020)

Richard & Marilyn Hughes

______

Sent: Sat 2020-07-04 9:19 AM

From: David Warrick

The working group show trial has begun at Shire Hall in Picton Ontario.

Although well-intentioned, the process will divide the local population.

Here are the charges against Macdonald in the form of a petition:

Google petition to remove the John A. Macdonald Monument “Holding Court” from Main Street Picton

It’s on change.org

Then read this:

For chronology of residential schools: https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/timeline/residential-schools

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Macdonald lived from 1815 to 1891.

Here are two pieces I wrote on the subject:

June 27, 2020 https://www.countylive.ca/canadas-first-prime-minister-to-go-on-trial-in-picton/ iPolitics (TorStar): http://macdonaldproject.com/the-john-a-macdonald-you-dont-know-by-david-warrick/

Read the speeches at the unveiling event here: http://macdonaldproject.com/education/

…also endorsing the project were Premier Kathleen Wynn, author David Frum, former P.M. Kim Campbell, Steve Paikin, host of TVO’s The Agenda, Mayor Robert Quaiff, Treasurer and CEO Janet Minor Law Society of Upper Canada, former Treasurer and CEO Thomas Conway Law Society of Upper Canada, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Ontario David Levac, Founding President of Trent University Thomas Symons, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario Elizabeth Dowdeswell, John Inrig, CD, of Picton, a former Hastings Prince Edward Regiment Commanding Officer, George Wright 95, a local war hero and police officer and member of elite Devil’s Brigage during WWII. The Macdonald Project received a standing ovation from all parties in the Ontario legislature in 2014. Former Finance Minister of Ontario and Liberal Party Leader Greg Sorbara, Daryl Kramp M.P. Lanny and Catharine Huff, Dr Chris Rogers and Dr. Norah Connelly and thousands more in attendance for the unveiling on Bicentennial, Canada Day 2015

David Warrick Ph.D. www.macdonaldproject.com

______

Sent: Sat 2020-07-04 11:23 AM

From: Paul Boyd

Subject: MacDonald

How long has been in the county

Her only agenda is to get rid of the statue and cause serious discomfort to the thousands of people in the county by condoning the vandalism by some lowlife who do not respect public property or the law Let’s post a reward for the arrest and conviction of these bused in terrorists If it wasn’t for MacDonald we would not have the Canada that we have

Sent from my iPhone

Page 119 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

______

Sent: Sat 2020-07-04 1:40 PM

From: Lawrence Elliott

Subject: Objection to removal of JA McDonald statue in Picton

Dear committee members,

I write in order to express my strong objection to the removal of the memorial statue in Picton, of Canada’s first Prime Minister Sir John A. McDonald.

Those who advocate for its removal do so in my opinion from a highly charged emotional view in today’s social climate yet, with little to no actual knowledge of the real facts of McDonald’s views and beliefs he held and policies he advocated and invoked.

Above and beyond this, there is not one of us today or one of our historical figures who no matter how great his or her accomplishments, did not have flaws, faults or in some instances even an outright dark side in his or her personality.

Considered one of the 20th century’s greatest leaders Sir Winston Churchill had beliefs AND policies that were genocidal in their roots and practice. Should his many positive accomplishments be wiped clean and all namesakes and tributes to him be obliterated?

Some First Nations peoples engaged in genocidal wars with barbarous acts of violence and massacres against other First Nations peoples. Yet we justifiably celebrate today, the importance of their fighting to repel an American invasion as well as the cultural and spiritual contributions to Canadian history and society which they have made.

Other First Nations peoples and leaders such as the celebrated Joseph Brant, hero of Canada, have been slave owners and traders. Should the valuable contributions of Brant in shaping our history be denigrated? I suspect there would be little support from First Nations members for that.

Nothing of what McDonald may have said or done deemed to be unacceptable today by some or many, nor actions of Churchill, Brant and many more, can be compared to the outright immoral cause of slavery fought for by the Confederacy in the American Civil War. To do so is blatantly inaccurate and disingenuous. Indeed, as in the case of Confederate monuments and the Confederate flag where the bad vastly outweighs the good, it is logical to conclude that there is no place in which we should publicly honour an individual such as a Confederate General. However, this is certainly not the case of McDonald-not even close.

Through education leading to perspective, we can learn and advance our society while we celebrate the good and the contributions of our historical figures.

I urge you to please apply this perspective in your decision making process. Please support retention of McDonald’s statue in its conspicuous and prominent place in Picton where he made so many great contributions to the fledgling community, the United Empire Loyalist region and to Canada.

Leave him be, where small children can ask whom he was, in the hope that they will learn more of what he dedicated his life and career to on behalf of criminal and social justice and in shaping our nation. We

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today and Canadians in the future are owed this place of honour for this work of art tribute to Sir John A.

Yours truly,

Lawrence Elliott

Bayfield, Ontario

______

Sent: Sat 2020-07-04 3:20 PM

From: Colin Hunter

Subject: Macdonald

I agree with the writer of this letter. More people need to be educated in Canadian history....Coli P Hunter Chairman and owner of Sunwing Canada ( an equal opportunity employer of over 17000 persons in the North America)

______

Sent: July 6, 2020 1:08 PM

To: Chad Curtis

Subject: Re: July 16, 2020 Heritage Advisory Committee Meeting

Great Chad. I think it would be very challenging otherwise.

I would strongly suggest that the PEHAC members on the working group, you, and perhaps Mark Kerr discuss the meetings in advance. Already, both sides feel the constitution of the committee is not appropriate, the time table for a report to Council is too tight, etc. I don’t feel it will be constructive if the debate is an exchange of historical factoids, and another Truth and Reconciliation commission. I think it will be very difficult to maintain the focus, to insist upon civil, respectful behaviour, and to look for compromise and a way forward.

I would also hope that there would be unanimous support to condemn vandalism to the statue. I was disappointed that was not forthcoming at our last meeting. Surely we do not want to follow the U.S. example. Somehow we need to avoid having winners and losers in this circumstance. I would support development of a second statue of the same scale on our Main St. that depicts a First Nations perspective on our history and was made by First Nation artists. There is also the opportunity to have a separate project in Carrying Place where the Gunshot Treaty was signed in the 1780s. Again, terrible history for First Nations, but there is a Historic Sites of Canada cairn there at the lights. It needs to be moved from its current hidden location to the park across the street and we could work with the Gord Downie Foundation to build a First Nations long house or other structure there. We need to find creative ways to acknowledge the past, while working together in the present.

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I read a book by First Nations author Lee Maracle of B.C. over the winter. It was called My Conversations With Canadians. It’s a tough book to read. But she advised “ Do something about us, with us, and for us.” I think that could be a guiding principle to the discussions.

I worked aa a reporter in Canada’s north, worked at Indian Affairs on the land claim of the Labrador Inuit, did the PR for a House of Commons special committee studying Indian self-government, and taught radio and TV skills to First Nations communication societies. These issues are very, very complicated.

Peter

Peter Lockyer

History Lives Here Inc.

______

From: Carlin Thompson

Sent: July-06-20 7:44 PM

To: heritage

Subject: John A MacDonald Statue

To Whom it May Concern,

I am a long-time resident of Prince Edward County, mother of three, educator, former teacher in an Indigenous community, and aunt to an Indigenous girl growing up in PEC. I am writing to express my desire to see the removal of the John A statue from Main Street. I urge you to look critically at the glorification of John A Macdonald in our community with the prominent placement of his statue on Main Street. Although he played an important role in our history, the complexities of the man and HOW he was able to “unite” our nation through despicable means (the full history which is often overlooked) is not appropriately addressed with this statue. As a tourist community welcoming people from across our nation, and all of Turtle Island, I think PEC is making a mistake in not responding more swiftly to rectifying the mistake that was the tone deaf erection of this statue in 2015 (the same year the Truth and Reconciliation Commission was released).

Macdonald’s legacy is Confederation, but it is also GENOCIDE. The effects of his abuse are still felt among Canada’s Indigenous people. This is not JUST history. My niece's people have been abused and she should not have to face their abuser every time she walks down Main Street or wants to check out a library book. It is inconceivable that the full legacy of John A Macdonald would be used as a source of pride to lure people to our community, that was once home to the figure. However, if we are not willing to present him, warts and all, it is both disingenuous and irresponsible to use the sanitized version of his history to decorate our downtown.

I urge you to take swift action and remove John A from Main Street.

Concerned citizen,

Carlin Thompson

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P.S. If there is a process by which community members are being asked to contribute to the decision of the fate of this statue, I would appreciate if you could forward me the pertinent information so I could become involved.

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From: Sue & Al Law

Date: July 6, 2020 at 1:58:20 PM EDT

To: AAA - Council

Subject: Macdonald Statue and Masks

To all PECCouncil:

The Sir John A. Macdonald statue represents a piece of history and is so well done. I am sorry that it keeps being defaced and due to his history may not stop. However he is part of history the good and the bad we cannot change it. What we can do is do better in the future. So we can put it in a safer place. Two possible places are in the library or the courthouse. I sincerely hope you will consider this idea.

Re masks PLEASE make them mandatory in stores, churches in public places NOW before we have an outbreak. With all of the visitors it would be inexcusable if this were to happen after County residents have been so careful and considering the age of so many of us.

Respectfully,

Susan Law ( 80 yrs.) R.N. -Retired

Sue and Al Law

______

From: Julia Heintzman

Sent: July-06-20 11:38 PM

To: heritage

Subject: John A Macdonald statue

To All This Concerns,

I would like to make my appeal for the removal of the statue of John A Macdonald.

First I would question the validity of the statue in its relation to his contributions to Picton. Understanding of course he was Canada’s Prime Minister, but he was a lawyer in Picton and...... ? I am trying to understand the importance of this statue compared to the reconciliation of our First Nations

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neighbours and members of our community. If we are serious about reconciliation we need to recognize the truth of the residential schools. We need to face the truth that our Father of Confederation, was the architect of Canada’s Indigenous genocide.

Respectfully I ask for the removal of this statue as a step toward healing for our Indigenous neighbours and their children. At the very least if unfortunately the statue remains, a plaque is added, perhaps highlighting John A’s speech to the House of Commons regarding his reasons for starting residential schools, which continued to affect generations of Indigenous people and continue to this day. If it is felt with such importance of having him there, then let’s at least have the full character of the man. You know so many people think it’s erasing history, but it’s the opposite...... it’s about getting history right!

Thank you,

Julia Heintzman

______

From: Andre Gratton

Sent: July 7, 2020 4:21 PM

To: AAA - Clerks Office

Subject: MEMBERS OF THE HERITAGE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

I am writing to express my concerns over the recent establishment of the committee that will oversee and make recommendations regarding the John. A. MacDonald statue in Picton. This follows a letter that has already been written by Paul Allen regarding the issue of representation on this committee. (see attached)

On July 2, 2020, the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (PEHAC) met to approve the Terms of Reference for a Working Group that will make recommendations on the future of Macdonald Holding Court. At that meeting, I and other members of the audience commented on The Macdonald Project’s conflict of interest and expressed concern about a representative of that organization being appointed to the Working Group. Mayor Steve Ferguson and Councillor John Hirsch initially seemed to share our concern.

A member of The Macdonald Project currently sits on the PEHAC and participated fully in the July 2nd meeting. While he signalled his support for a “transparent and fair” process, this member argued that “I don’t know how it’s possible to have a true inclusiveness, and gather all the stakeholders there, if you don’t consult or have representation from The Macdonald Project.” He also warned, “I just want to make sure that we don’t replace one tyranny with another tyranny. And say, ‘Well, we’re not hearing from those people, because we don’t want to hear from those people.’ I think you really have to bring everybody together.”

Against this backdrop, I’d like to share three comments with Council:

First, to my knowledge, no one’s ever suggested that The Macdonald Project shouldn’t be consulted by the Working Group. No one’s ever said, “We’re not hearing from those people, because we don’t want to hear from those people.” No one’s called the status quo a “tyranny” – and certainly no one’s aiming

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to replace it with another. Let’s all agree tonight: If we’re going to build trust and good will as we move ahead with this challenging conversation, everyone needs to be more careful not to exaggerate our differences or to impugn each other’s motives.

Second, the Working Group ultimately will have to vote on what recommendations to make to the PEHAC. It’s likely that members will also be asked to vote along the way on important procedural motions (e. g. who to consult with, how to consult with them, how to share their progress publicly). There may not always be unanimity, so it’s important to get the Working Group’s voting membership right.

Finally, anyone who joins the Working Group is likely to come with some opinion about Macdonald Holding Court; otherwise, as the saying goes, they must’ve been living under a rock. All the public can ask is that everyone do their best to keep an open mind and to be respectful of everyone’s opinion.

The Macdonald Project’s conflict of interest doesn’t arise, therefore, from their simply having an opinion about Macdonald Holding Court. No, their conflict of interest arises from their organization’s relationship to the statue.

An analogy might help illustrate the point:

Imagine that three professionals (Ted, the Director of Human Resources, and two of his employees, Alice and Bob) normally work as a group to screen, interview and hire applicants for jobs at Tools R Us. One day, Ted’s son, John, applies for a position in Public Relations. John has a history with the company, having worked in the mail room for five years. Alice and Bob know a little about John, mainly from things Ted has told them. Before reading John’s resume and interviewing him, Alice happens to think that John might turn out to be a good candidate for the job. Based on what he knows about John, and Bob's recent falling out with Ted, Bob isn’t feeling too positive about John.

Tools R Us has policies and procedures that require Alice and Bob to set aside these sorts of personal biases and to hire people who are best qualified for the job. The company also has policies and procedures to address a wide variety of conflicts of interest. In our example, these policies and procedures ensure that the hiring processes at Tools R Us are fair and are seen to be fair (e. g. by other employees who might apply for the job). The policies and procedures dictate (at a minimum):

1. Ted should not be involved in screening or interviewing his son or any other applicanst. Leadership may assign a substitute to take Ted’s place.

2. Alice and Bob should treat Ted’s son and all other applicants fairly and consistently.

3. Ted should not be involved in the discussion or decision about who to hire.

4. Alice and Bob should face no repercussions for their hiring decision.

When Tools R Us enforces these policies and procedures, it’s without regard to anyone’s opinion of Ted’s character or his contribution to the company; likewise, Ted's removal from the hiring process says nothing about him.

By analogy, Holding Court is The Macdonald Project’s child. Any representative of this organization naturally has a conflict of interest with regard to the statue’s future. While The Macdonald Project should be welcomed to assist the Working Group, it should not sit as one of its members.

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Respectfully, I ask that Council amend the Working Group’s Terms of Reference accordingly.

I am well aware that an advisory committee has been established to review and discuss this matter and to make a recommendation to the Heritage Committee and the Council.

I have previously written to John Hirsch and Mayor Steve Ferguson indicating that I thought it would be in the best interest of this committee, to have at a minimum 2 individuals who could best represent the Indigenous community on this working group. Given our proximity to a native reserve, and our history of Indeginous citizens in this community, it would seem logical to have members of that community sitting on that committee in an effort to express their concerns/ or perspectives on the statue that sits on Main Street.

I understand at this point we have only found one person from this community to sit on this committee which I am finding hard to believe that we could not get two individuals. My request at this time is to express that as a resident of the County, that we re-visit this decision and ensure that appropriate and relevant representation exists on the body that will be making recommendations.

Respectfully submitted,

ANDRE GRATTON

______

From: Casey Heintzman

Sent: July 8, 2020 9:56 AM

To: heritage

Subject: Please remove Sir John A from Main St

Let’s remove the Sir John A. MacDonald statue from the steps of the Picton Public Library.

We’re not erasing him from the history books! He’s still there (the good and the bad). The trauma he inflicted through the Indian Residential School System is still experienced today—it cannot be forgotten. The man cannot be erased!

He just doesn’t need to be standing in a place of honour in downtown Picton.

For many, he is a symbol of colonial violence against Indigenous people. For this reason, he should be removed.

Reconciliation is MORE than the removal of harmful symbols, but it is not less than the removal of these symbols. May we follow this action with more substantive acts of reconciliation.

I support the idea of turning the removal into a learning opportunity. I read the following suggestion on Facebook, and I quite like it:

"Let's remove the statue, create a seating space there, and one that offers a learning opportunity by way of mounting a huge plaque (maybe it's a table?) that says something like: 'Here once stood a statue of John A. Macdonald, Canada's first prime minister. As his acts of racism (we could list a few facts here about exactly what those were) have become widely known, it was decided to remove the statue out of

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respect for truth and reconciliation with the country's indigenous people. If you would like to see the statue, it can be found (wherever it's decided it should go).'

Thank you for considering my request.

Sincerely,

Casey Heintzman

______

From: Nancy Puddy

Date: July 9, 2020 at 10:52:51 AM EDT

To: Ernest Margetson

Subject: Sir John A statue

Good morning Ernie, it is our opinion that the statue of Sir John A. MacDonald remain at the library in Picton. History does not always reflect morals and views held by society today, but should be honoured because it is part of our heritage.

Trust that council will use common sense when addressing this issue, thank you, John and Nancy Puddy, Consecon

______

Ken Dewar, Chair, PEHAC

Subject: Macdonald Statue Working Group

Councilor Bill Roberts suggested I contact you regarding PEHAC’s deliberations on the Macdonald Statue, particularly on the issue of public art.

First, when I checked the membership of the working group, I was puzzled that no one is representing the arts community. Why not include a practicing artist who is a member of the Arts Council? If this isn’t possible, at least the Arts Council should be given an opportunity for comment.

Although I do not qualify as either artist or Arts Council member, I am concerned that the decision making should be informed by an artistic perspective. To my mind, the statue is fundamentally a piece of sidewalk art, and someone must be able to speak for sculptor Ruth Abernethy.

Second, I would be pleased to make such a deputation to the working group along the lines of my OP ED published in the July 8th Wellington Times. For your convenience I include it below.

PEHAC has a difficult public consultation ahead, and its recommendation has to take into account many competing views. I hope the arts community will be involved directly in the process.

Sincerely,

Henri Garand

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The Macdonald Statue and Public Art in Troubled Times

The controversy over Picton’s statue of John A. Macdonald raises important questions not only about Canada’s history and Macdonald’s political record but about the function and value of public art.

Traditionally, such art affirms a society’s religious beliefs, commemorates heroic acts and military victories, and honors great athletes and leaders. These are the familiar statues of Greek gods and goddesses, equestrian riders, and solemn figures on pedestals, and in Canada, of prime ministers and war memorials.

In the twentieth century public art became more playful, from the giant spider outside the National Gallery of Canada to the bronze businessmen on downtown Cobourg’s sidewalk. These statues have no clear references, though by catching our attention they enhance enjoyment of a particular communal space.

“Holding Court,” the Macdonald statue in Picton, combines several functions. On the one hand, it features Canada’s first prime minister and was commissioned from sculptor Ruth Abernethy to mark the 200th year anniversary of his birth. It also provides a footnote to Picton’s history when Macdonald was nineteen years old, and it identifies a relationship with him that no other Canadian small town can claim.

On the other hand, its clever pictorial rendering and touch of irony are wholly contemporary in the way viewers are engaged. Macdonald is depicted not a pedestal high above the heads of viewers, but on the ground, standing beside a prisoner’s dock, accessible for close inspection. The realistic image is not of a stern old man astride a horse and carrying a sword, but of a seemingly ordinary fellow, though in old-fashioned dress. The prisoner’s dock is the key interpretive detail. It arouses curiosity and invites inquiry into its meaning.

There’s an implicit irony in a scene recalling a clever young man with legal ambitions and alcoholic failings, a flawed human being who was found “Not Guilty” in court but scarcely innocent in public opinion. Due to its approachability, interest, and scale, this small piece of sidewalk art has a greater presence than Picton’s war memorial, and it enriches the vacant space outside the library.

Consequently, it’s unfortunate that the statue has become the focus of a polarizing dispute over Macdonald’s record. The political differences seem to be irreconcilable between those who regard him as a man of his time and those who condemn some of his acts as reprehensible whether or not he knew it. Instead of expressing social solidarity, as traditional statues have done, the Macdonald statue now fosters divisiveness and vandalism. This result must be very dispiriting for those who supported the Macdonald Project and gifted the statue to Picton.

Even more worrisome is that vandalism will subvert the public consultation process on display of the statue, and council will seek to eliminate an ongoing problem by swiftly removing it to some less frequented location and perhaps protecting it behind wire fence.

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Surely there must be a means by which art can triumph over politics. Can the statue be repurposed as a history lesson as well as historical anecdote? It would never again simply delight viewers, but it would serve the function of affirming social values.

An accompanying plaque could briefly cite the corrupt business practices in Macdonald’s later career and his policies harmful to indigenous and other peoples. Indeed, then the statue should definitely remain outside the library to provide a learning opportunity for anyone interested. In other words, it could become an agent for telling the truth and reconciling with history.

______

From: Brian Porter Sent: July 13, 2020 12:17 PM To: Mayor Steven Ferguson Cc: AAA - Council Subject: Macdonald Statue

Mayor Ferguson and Council; With my attachment here I would like to add some comments and some historical context for your community discussion about possibly removing the statue of young John A. Macdonald. Ruth Abernethy has added an excellent piece of public art and it is a sad commentary that it has been vandalized.

Yours truly, Brian Porter Brockville

COMMUNITY CONSULTATION re SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD

Mayor Steve Ferguson and Members of Council,

Prince Edward County,

Shire Hall,

332 Main St.

Picton Ontario

Dear Mayor Ferguson and Council,

I wish to submit some comments and some historical information to your community consultation about removing John A. Macdonald’s statue from Main Street in Picton.

This is a sad commentary on the present era in which we live and on this two-hundredth anniversary of the arrival of five year-old John Alexander Macdonald in Kingston. He would go on to

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have an unprecedented career of forty-seven years in politics. He and his father Hugh would also be on the committee from St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church who founded Queen’s University

I feel strongly that John A. Macdonald’s name and reputation has been needlessly slandered by willfully ill-informed critics projecting twenty-first century values, beliefs and attitudes back into the 19th century and condemning him for not meeting their standards of perfection.

The tenor of the times seems obsessed with magnifying our mistakes and ignoring our accomplishments as a nation. The fix is in. His life story and his many accomplishments are so little known that he has no chance of getting a fair hearing and the recognition he deserves.

Nevertheless, I will proceed to contribute to the discussion.

A man of high intelligence, with a friendly, optimistic personality and great sense of humour, John A. Macdonald developed well-honed political skills and went on to lead the formation of a new nation in the world. He was the author of fifty of the seventy-two Resolutions of the original constitution, the BNA Act.

Being the right man, in the right place, at the right time he was able to negotiate his way through a highly-charged minefield of French-English, Catholic –Protestant differences and prejudices to find common ground on which to build this new nation. All the while he was concerned about possible aggression from a much larger, expansionist-minded American neighbour.

He was largely self-educated through wide reading and became quite a liberal-minded man for that era. He coined the term “progressive conservative” and his party was the Liberal-Conservative Party.

In his Franchise Bill in 1885 he sought to give women the vote, but this was too controversial and was not passed. He was thirty years ahead of his time on this. But he was able to get the vote for Indigenous men in eastern Canada with no loss of treaty rights. This too was resisted by many and was removed when the government of Wilfrid Laurier came to power in 1896.

One hundred and fifty-three years later the country John A. Macdonald helped to shape and consolidate, is admired around the world for stability, tolerance, freedom and opportunity. But this critically important leader is largely unknown by Canadians. Little is taught is our schools about the man and his times and the formation of our nation.

None of this matters now as a campaign is underway seeking to remove his name from buildings and plaques, to remove his statues and erase him from our collective memory. All complexity and nuance of the man and his time are ignored, all accomplishments are forgotten, as he is vilified and reduced to a one-dimensional racist caricature. Blaming, shaming and renaming will get us nowhere, but will produce anger and resentment in the wider population.

The more vocal opponents of any recognition of Macdonald exhibit a disdain for Canada and its institutions. Showing no appreciation for what we have built on his foundation and mistakes we have addressed.

Reconciliation will mean facing the dark parts of our past, including Indian residential school policy. Reconciliation has to be a two-way street with better understanding and wider knowledge of our

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history on both sides. Macdonald’s legacy is now being examined only through a very narrow lens of residential schools, all accomplishments in nation building pushed aside and forgotten.

RELATIONS WITH INDIGENOUS PEOPLE –

I would like to add some little-known information about Macdonald and his relations with Indigenous people here in eastern Canada. He had good relations and friendship with many, as the testimonials below will show. His blind-spot was the West, which he only visited once.

He appointed Richard Hardisty, the first Metis in the Senate in 1888. His granddaughter Daisy went to Miss Harmon’s Boarding School in Ottawa, run by Abby Maria Harmon, a Metis very proud of her Cree and French descent. He recommended Thomas Green, a Mohawk land surveyor and graduate of McGill, to join the Dominion Land Survey in 1886.

In 1886 Macdonald invited nine Chiefs of Blackfoot, Cree and Ojibwe to come by train to visit Ontario and Quebec and tour factories, farms, schools and reserves. Crowfoot, Three Bulls and others came to see Macdonald at his home in Ottawa. They asked for help starting farms and a market for their produce.

The Chiefs visited the Mohawk Reserve at Grand River and saw productive farms run by the Six Nations. They saw the Mohawk Institute run by the Anglican Church as an opportunity for their children. North Axe, a Peigan Chief, requested that his son and brother be educated at the Mohawk Institute. Cree Chief Pakan was quoted as saying, “ My object in going east was to get more schools for my people. Schools are what we want, to educate our children, who are thirsting for knowledge.”

The Chiefs were guests of honour in Brantford for the unveiling of a bronze statue of Joseph Brant, hero in the 1812 war.

Macdonald was not the “architect” of residential schools. Residential schools were established by the various religious denominations in the 1830’s, decades before Macdonald became Prime Minister. Neither his government nor any other government had effective control over the way the churches operated the schools.

The TRC final report said, ”Principals resented government attempts to exert control over the way they ran their schools.” “ Government officials were frustrated by the fact they could not control how the per capita grant money was spent.”

Finally in 1953 Ottawa introduced new regulations in “an attempt by Indian Affairs to exert control over the schools.” The TRC found that, “ the establishment of a nationwide discipline policy in 1953 did not bring an end to abusive disciplinary practices …. the policies that existed were poorly enforced and often simply ignored.”

By 1957 the Federal government was very concerned about the lack of control over these church-run schools. There was no uniformity of standards in quality of management and staff, quantity and quality of food and clothing and general upkeep of facilities. They did not take over “full management of the system from the churches” until 1969 and began to shut the system down.

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Over all of this time the majority of Indigenous children never attended residential schools. In 1944-45 for example there were 28,429 school-age Indigenous children in all of Canada. 8865 were in residential school (31.1%), 7,573 attended day school, 42.2 % did not attend any school.

We cannot deny the failure and abuses, but it is wrong to make John A, Macdonald the scapegoat for the failed system that developed in the decades after his death. His government had increased spending on Indian Affairs by 41% over three years. Increases in 1879-80 from $489,327 to $694,512, in 1881-82 to $1,183,414, the third largest government expense after debt and infrastructure.

It was hard to find qualified instructors willing to live and work in the West under rudimentary conditions and many logistical problems. They often ended with inexperienced, incompetent Indian Agents in a difficult situation, along with an economic depression in the 1870’s and again later in ‘80’s.

Biographer Richard Gwyn quoted Macdonald as saying in Parliament, “ We cannot as Christians, and as men with hearts in our bosoms, allow the vagabond Indian to die before us … We must prevent them from starving in consequence of the extinction of the buffalo and their not yet (having) betaken themselves to raising crops.”

TESTIMONIALS from INDIGENOUS LEADERS

I would like to add some testimonials from various Chiefs and their Councils to show a side of Macdonald little known and never discussed.

In the 1830’s or 1840’s Macdonald met Tyendinaga Mohawk John Culbertson, son of a Scottish fur trader and the daughter of John Deserontyon, founder of the Mohawk settlement on the Bay of Quinte in the 1780’s. He had established a village for non-Native settlers, which he named after his grandfather, Deseronto.

In 1878 Chief Archibald Cuthbertson and five other Mohawk Chiefs at Tyendinaga prepared an address to John A. Macdonald congratulating him on his recent victory.

In part it reads,“ We cannot refrain from telling you the peculiar pleasure we experienced on hearing that you had become the head of the Department on the Interior and consequently Superintendent General of Indian Affairs as we have long been aware of the great interest you have always taken and shown for our people in this Dominion.”

A number of Aboriginal people in Ontario recognized his contribution to their situation, particularly after his electoral Franchise Act of 1885, which gave the federal vote to all male adult Indians in eastern Canada who met the property requirements.

Some indigenous leaders wrote to thank Macdonald for his efforts on behalf of their people. In June 1885 Dr. Peter Jones, (Kahkewaquonaby) a Chief of the Mississaugas of the Credit, wrote to congratulate Macdonald. “ My Dear Sir John, I should have written to you some time ago to thank you for making the Indian a ‘person’ in the Franchise Bill. Other affairs, however, have prevented me from performing my duty …. I now thank you on the part of the memory of my father (Rev. Peter Jones) and on the part of myself, as for many years we advocated and urged this step as the one most likely to elevate the aborigines to the position more approaching the independence of the whites.” (repealed by Laurier in 1898)

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Chief Charles Big Canoe (Keche Chemon) and band Councillor James Ashquabe of the Georgina Island Ojibwas on Lake Simcoe wrote to thank the Prime Minister for his ”earnest efforts to promote the welfare of the Indian people throughout the whole Dominion ….. We appreciate your difficulties in dealing with our less civilized brother in the North West who has not had the advantages we in Ontario have had ….. we thank you most cordially for the gift of the franchise.”

Chief Mitchell Chubb and band councilors Peter Crowe, Joshua Blaker, Allan Salt, E. Comego and band secretary George Blaker of the Alnwick band on Rice Lake sent a memorial to endorse the extension of the franchise in 1885.

“ Whereas the Right Honourable Sir John A. Macdonald K.C.B. Premier of Canada and Superintendent General of Indian Affairs, proposed and obtained the consent of parliament to the enfranchisement of the Indians of the Older Provinces of Canada; and whereas he also eloquently advocated our Rights and protected and defended our character and good name from the insults and slander of our enemies: Therefore be it resolved that we the Chief and council, assembled, offer on our own behalf, and on behalf of our band our heart felt thanks to him our great Chief and tell him that we shall always gratefully remember his goodness and Justice and the Honor and dignity he has conferred upon us and that we shall teach our young men to follow in our footsteps in remembering his great character and cherishing the memory of his good words and noble deeds.”

Macdonald wrote to Dr. Peter Jones, a Chief of the Mississaugas, August 31, 1886 -

“ The object I had in extending the privilege of the franchise to the Indians was to place them on a footing of equality with their white brethren. I considered that it was unjust to the original owners of the soil to be prevented from aiding in the election of men who would represent their interests in Parliament. The Franchise Act has now been in force for a year, and the Indians must see that their treaty rights have not been in the slightest degree affected since it became law. You may answer our Indian friends from me, as Superintendent General of Indian Affairs, that the Franchise Act does not in any way affect or injure the rights secured to them by treaty or by the laws relating to the Red men of the Dominion. They may vote with perfect security. ….. I hope to see some day the Indian race represented by one of themselves on the floor of the House of Commons.”

- Dr. Peter Martin, (Mohawk –Oronkytekha) wrote to John A. on January 5, 1882 that he and his wife had decided to name their new-born son John Alexander, “ so that in after years we could tell him after whom he was named and to instruct him to emulate his name sake in love and devotion to his country, which go so far to make a true patriot.”

At this time, Kingston, Picton and other cities are faced with very vocal activists, on campus, in the streets and on-line, with a political/ideological agenda and an intolerance of any other point of view. A balanced discussion is neither wanted nor tolerated. They offer no critical response, just a narrow, negative view of our national narrative.

These aggressive, self-righteous protestors are shutting down public debate and spreading a culture of fearfulness and intimidation.

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Vandalizing and removing Macdonald statues, vandalizing his grave-site and proposed de-naming are all signs of this.

Your namesake, Sir Thomas Picton, is under attack in Cardiff Wales to have his statue removed.

Who will be next? Where does it all end?

“ Education is not indoctrination. Our history is not a blank page on which we can write our own version of what it should have been according to our contemporary views and prejudices.” -

Chris Patten, Chancellor of Oxford University

Brian Porter

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On Thursday, July 16, 2020 1:53 PM, Kate MacNaughton wrote:

Debbie Pepper, a Picton resident called me to comment on Holding Court. She asked that I communicate her opinion to council as she is not an internet user. I’m CC-ing Ken as well.

“John A. Should never have been at the Armoury because he wasn’t military, and he wasn’t a librarian, so be shouldn’t be in front of the library. He should be in front of courthouse on Union St.”

Kate MacNaughton

Councillor

Prince Edward County

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On Jul. 27, 2020, 11:56 a.m., Leigh Moore wrote:

Protestors against the legacy of Canada’s first Prime Minister conveniently forget that they owe a debt to him and his colleagues for helping create a country and style of government where their voices of protest can be heard. This is a right that many countries do not enjoy. Rather than focusing on the many positive contributions brought about by Sir John – Confederation, building a national railway, providing famine relief and smallpox vaccinations for Native Canadians, and building day and residential schools for Native children at the request of Native leaders, instead these protestors choose to focus on the now outdated, unpopular and destructive policies against indigenous peoples of the time, and want to deny Sir John A. his rightful place in history.

We must remember – history occurs in context – the social values, beliefs and policies of the time, which are understandably different than today’s standards. We cannot judge history out of context. Beliefs, values and policies evolve over time. That’s how we got to where we are today. That’s how we learn. To deny parts of our history just because we don’t like them or agree with them is small-minded and self- serving. In every one, and everything, there are both positive and negative aspects.

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Terrible things have been done to our indigenous brethren over the course of our history. Treaties broken, mandatory residential schools (which did not occur until 3 years after Sir John’s death), enforced migration, cultural dislocation….

We need to understand and acknowledge that these things have happened in history, and given a choice, we would not make those same choices today. We can’t change the past, only the future – but understanding that past, complete with both its positive elements, and negative elements, and why it happened – will help us not to repeat the mistakes of our past.

Those who wish to sanitize, edit and whitewash the aspects of our history they dislike are dooming us to repeat it in the future. We need to learn from the biases and beliefs of the past in order to move forward. Destruction and public vandalism are not a solution and do not further the process of reconciliation between indigenous people and their neighbours. These acts of vandalism alienate, antagonize and erode support for this important process.

Leigh Moore

Hillier, ON

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Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee

County of Prince Edward

Shire Hall, Picton

July 21, 2020

Re: Sir John A. Macdonald statue

I am writing to add my voice to those who feel that Picton's statue of Sir John A. Macdonald is inappropriate and needlessly hurtful in its present context.

Macdonald's key role in the establishment of residential schools, policies of forced starvation, culture and language eradication, land appropriation, and what amounted to incarceration on marginally productive and culturally foreign land, are well-documented. The damage was profound, and the long shadows, including systemic racism within education, justice, public health, employment, land rights, and virtually every other field, are persistent.

While those of us who are not Indigenous may not be able to put ourselves in the shoes of an Indigenous person seeing the statue of Macdonald, we can certainly imagine with empathy how devalued and provoked someone could feel. What does this artwork and its prominent position say about what and who this community values, and what and who it does not value? Or is unthinkingly blind to? And what does this say for inclusivity? Who does this community imagine it comprises?

Non-Indigenous people are not immune to negative effects either. Just as the duplicitous and cavalier disregard of treaties by successive governments has eroded the good character of our nation and hence its citizens, an unconscious affirmation of pride in a colonial past – one based on heinous and dishonourable behaviour – is fed by our choice of public art and monuments. In these ways, we can make ourselves stupid instead of thoughtful.

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I do not know what the best fate for the Macdonald statue is, but to leave it in a place of prominence on Main Street, unaccompanied by an illuminating companion piece by a First Nations artist, is unacceptable. As the visual tends to be more broadly accessible and impactful than the written, the inclusion of a plaque detailing Macdonald's racist policies is insufficient by itself.

Good arguments have been made for the removal of such pieces as the Macdonald statue. And good arguments have been made for keeping them, along with ameliorating additions, as acknowledgements of historic truths and for their educational value. Whatever your committee recommends to council, it must be informed, of course, by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's call to action No. 79.

As sculptures go, Ruth Abernethy's Macdonald statue is beautifully executed and shows him in such an 'animated' slice-of-life. And considerable citizen effort went into its commission. For these reasons, as well as the prominent and key role Macdonald played in the history of Canada, for better or for worse, the sculpture should not be destroyed. But wherever is deemed best for its placement, it must be accompanied by a prominent and appropriate 'thickening' of the story.

Whatever public art results from your efforts, it would be helpful if it included – as does the Macdonald statue – local history. What was the fate of local residents after UEL colonists arrived? Were First Nations children from the County and/or Tyendinaga sent to residential school (the nearest being Alderville near Rice Lake) or federal Indian Day Schools?

Deciding the matter by plebiscite, as I've recently seen suggested, has one very large problem: 90 per cent of the people may favour a position, but that does not make that position moral and right.

Garret Smith, a Siksika man from Alberta's Piikani Nation, was quoted in Calgary's Star Metro newspaper on Aug. 28, 2018: “For us it's very simple: Keep the statues, keep them. But if you want to keep the statues, our point of view is erect monuments or statues of the children or of the First Nations leaders who were affected by those policies. Put a statue up next to John A. Macdonald, have the Indian Act right next to him and have a pile of children, in a monument, that were murdered, right next to him.”

Thank you for the work you are now engaged in. I don't imagine the Heritage Advisory Committee is generally involved in what is essentially an important human rights issue.

Sincerely,

Anthea Weese cc. Picton Gazette

Wellington Times

County Weekly News

“I have not hesitated to tell this House, again and again, that we could not always hope

to maintain peace with the Indians; that the savage was still a savage, and that until he ceased

to be savage, we were always in danger of a collision, in danger of war, in danger of an outbreak.”

John A. Macdonald, 1885

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“...we have been pampering and coaxing the Indians... we must vindicate the position

of the white man, we must teach the Indians what law is....” JOHN A. MACDONALD, 1885

“The great aim of our legislation has been to do away with the tribal system and assimilate

the Indian people in all respects with the other inhabitants of the Dominion as speedily

as they are fit to change.” JOHN A. MACDONALD, 1887

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Tue 2020-09-01 2:22 PM

Karen Munro

Subject: I have an idea

To: Emily Cowan

Good afternoon,

I would like to share an idea that may help with all the controversy regarding Sir John A MacDonald's statue in downtown Picton. As you know there are two sides to this debate. The statue represents the past. But there is no representation of correcting the past and illustrating the present and future. Why not change that?

My suggestion is to have another statue or two installed that represents those that have been affected by this mistreatment. Maybe a young boy standing up to the statue of Sir John A. MacDonald, with his chest out or holding a book that implies teaching. Hold a contest for artists to send in their designs and sculpting ideas. Send it out to local or provincial artists that are indigenous. Give them the opportunity to tell their story through a statue that represents them.

There is a statue called "Fearless Girl" that is in New York. I have attached a copy of the Wikipedia information that explains it below. This was installed to "send a message". Your new statue could send a message too. Instead of erasing history let's extend it.

You could be the first town that shows that we need to remember the past and move forward for the future of everyone, so that mistakes are not forgotten and will be learned from them.

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I hope you find a solution to this challenge. I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

Karen Munro

Fearless Girl measures approximately 50 inches (130 cm) tall and weighs about 250 pounds (110 kg).[1] As first placed, it faced Charging Bull, a much larger and heavier bronze statue that is 11 feet (3.4 m) tall and weighs 7,100 pounds (3,200 kg).[6] Fearless Girl is meant to "send a message" about workplace gender diversity and encourage companies to recruit women to their boards.[7] The plaque below the statue stated: "Know the power of women in leadership. SHE makes a difference," with SHE referring to both the gender of the subject and the fund's NASDAQ ticker symbol.[8] The commission by State Street Global Advisors specified that the statue should depict a girl with hands on her hips and chin up, with a height of 36 inches, which Kristen Visbal and her collaborators then increased to 50 inches, to better match the size of Charging Bull. Still, Visbal commented that "I made sure to keep her features soft; she's not defiant, she's brave, proud, and strong, not belligerent". She modeled the sculpture on two children from Delaware "so everyone could relate to the Fearless Girl."[1]

History[edit] The statue was installed on March 7, 2017—the day before International Women's Day—by State Street Global Advisors, in a campaign developed by advertising agency McCann New York.[9] SSGA was celebrating the first anniversary of its "Gender Diversity Index" fund that "invests in U.S. large- capitalization companies that rank among the highest in their sector in achieving gender diversity across senior leadership".[10] The concept for the statue was developed by Senior Art Director Lizzie Wilson and Senior Copywriter Tali Gumbiner. Wilson and Gumbiner established both the idea for the statue as well as the overall look of the girl using countless moodboards and imagery, which Visbal referenced.[11] Fearless Girl was originally given a one-week City Hall permit that was later extended to 30 days.[12] Later, it was announced that the statue would remain in place through February 2018.[13][14] Among those advocating for the statue to stay longer was U.S. Representative Carolyn Maloney of New York's 12th congressional district, who stated, "This statue has touched hearts across the world with its symbolism of the resiliency of women."[15] New York City Public Advocate Letitia James wrote a letter that supported keeping the statue, "Fearless Girl stands as a powerful beacon, showing women—young and old—that no dream is too big and no ceiling is too high".[16] A petition on Change.org asking for the statue to be made permanent gathered 2,500 signatures in its first 48 hours.[12][17] Efforts to make the statue permanent continued after the statue was granted a

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one-year permit.[18] In April 2018, after Fearless Girl had been in place for thirteen months, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio announced that both Charging Bull and Fearless Girl would be moved to a location facing the New York Stock Exchange. The move would occur before the end of 2018.[19][20] The statue was removed from its original location at Bowling Green on November 28, 2018.[5][21][22] On the spot where the statue stood was placed a marker which read, "Fearless Girl is on the move to the New York Stock Exchange. Until she's there, stand for her." The plaque has footprints where people can stand.[5] The statue was unveiled on December 10 at its new site facing the New York Stock Exchange.[23]

Karen Munro

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Tue 2020-09-01 3:55 PM

Peggy Hitchon

Subject: Sir John A. MacDonald statue

To: Emily Cowan <>

Please leave Sir John A.’s statue alone. He was our 1st Prime Minister & an immigrant from Scotland.

He had his issues, as we all do, but his history with our Canadian history is intertwined and cannot be undone.

Leave the statue alone please.

Peggy Hitchon

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Tue 2020-09-01 6:21 PM mark londry

Subject: The “Holding Court” Statue Working Group

To: Emily Cowan <>

We can’t erase everything that might be offensive to some one or group. We also cannot judge historical figures based on current morality.

I’m proud to be Canadian and John A Macdonald was the architech of the country like him or not.

The statue needs to stay and anyone vadalizing it needs to be arrested and charge accordingly!

Mark

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Tue 2020-09-01 10:32 PM

Emma Hunt

Subject: Opinions on JAM

To: Emily Cowan <>

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Good evening I’d like to share my ideas and feelings on the Jon A MacDonald statue, I’d like to start by saying I am First Nations; Mohawk. Everyday I have to walk down main street to get to my place of work, so I walk by the statue everyday and try to avoid looking at it as much as possible. In my opinion statues are meant for people we look up to and are proud of. To have a statue in the heart of our community that is so controversial isn’t the image PEC wants, Ive always thought of Picton as an accepting and welcoming community but the statue and hate received in the process of trying to get it removed has made me think otherwise. I do not condone the vandalism that has been done as that also puts the movement in the wrong direction, I believe the statue should be removed and placed in a museum where most historical artifacts are. This way the artist is not disrespected and the statue is not destroyed. I then think there should be a council meeting on what should replace the John A MacDonald statue that better represents our town.

Thank you for taking the time to read my email.

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Wed 2020-09-02 12:23 PM

From: ashrowestate

Subject: Keep it where it is.

To: Emily Cowan <>

We cannot erase the past or the sins of our fathers but learn from their mistakes and be better for it.

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Wed 2020-09-02 12:35 PM

From: Christine Theriault

Subject: Sir John

To: Emily Cowan <>

my name is Christine tomorrow and I'm a resident of Wellington Prince Edward County. I think the surge on a McDonalds. You should be removed. Did Johnny McDonald had a huge part in slavery in Canada and the abusive of our native peoples. He does not need to be celebrated publicly. We do not need to send a message to our citizens of colour that we celebrate someone who did such horrific things.

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Thank you

Christine Theriault

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Wed 2020-09-02 10:40 AM

From: Mark Kerr

Subject: FW: Public comment on the John A. Macdonald statue

To: Emily Cowan

Emily,

I am sure that Peter is going to participate in the discussion but forward this along just in case.

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From: Peter Lockyer Sent: January-10-20 10:13 AM To: Mark Kerr Cc: Mayor Steven Ferguson Subject: Public comment on the John A. Macdonald statue

Hi Mark,

I am attaching my comments on the debate about the future of the John A. Macdonald statue.

I was a member of the Macdonald Project Committee and my strong feeling is that we should use this art work as a learning resource to candidly discuss the past and help shape the future in full partnership with First Nations. Removing the statue, storing it away out of sight, or making it into scrap, is like burning books we don’t agree with. Whether you love him - or hate him - he remains our most famous - or infamous - County resident. First Nations want to talk about these longstanding issues. I don’t disagree with their perspective. So let’s move forward together.

I do hope the community will make the right decision as we too will be making history.

Page 142 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

Best regards,

Peter Peter Lockyer

Macdonald statue.doc

STAFF NOTE: (Please let me know if you have trouble opening this attachment)

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Wed 2020-09-02 1:29 PM

From: Francis Morahan

Subject: John A Macdonald statue

To: Emily Cowan

Leave it alone, with him there would be no Canada! He is part of our history and needs to be displayed. Let him who has not sinned cast the first stone, including the instigators of this BS!

Frank Morahan.

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Wed 2020-09-02 1:34 PM From: Bob McKittrick Subject: Sir John To: Emily Cowan I personally believe the statue should stay. I would miss it if it was removed to a museum. However, like all past leaders,he was responsible for both positive and very negative decisions which affected our indigenous Canadians and there needs to be some recognition of this blot on our history. Therefore I strongly support an initiative to use the statue as a teaching moment with a plaque that identifies his positive historical side as well as the negative and I would very much like our Mohawk friends and neighbours to have input into this effort to make clear Sir John's impact on our Canadian history. I would also hope that the committee would consult with Murray Sinclair on his views and if possible his assistance in producing a sustainable and meaningful teaching moment we can all be proud off. Thanks for the opportunity to provide input on the ongoing deliberations. You are faced with a very tricky and emotional matter and it's very challenging to try and please both sides on an issue. Bob McKittrick ______

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From: Sharon OMeara Sent: September 2, 2020 2:10 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Holding Court Comment

Hello,

I feel like I am in the middle of Orwell's 1984, which was met with terror and fear when it came out. Shame on those who want to change history. Do they also want to change their ancestors or their past? Let's concentrate on more important things like finding a vaccine for COVID-19 or using legal possibilities to make our present and future more inclusive, fair, and acceptable to everyone. Add a plaque to the statue if you must, saying some of Macdonald's actions are not condoned by the County, the town, the people, and never will be. Thank you,

Sharon

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From: jeffandrobin Sent: September 2, 2020 2:18 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Statue

You can't change the past there were some things that Sir John A. McDonald didn't do correctly but other things that he did do correctly to make Canada great. I agree with Chief Maracle that moving forward we need to correct racism. But removing statues does not change history so I think it should stay where it is.

Leaving the statue reminds us not to repeat mistakes.

Robin Bitton

STIRLING Ontario

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

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From: taylorcrofton Sent: September 2, 2020 2:18 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A Macdonald statue

Keep the statue. Getting rid of it doesn't change history.

This man played an important part in Canada's history, some good, some bad.

Let's learn from history and move forward.

What we do now might be considered wrong in 150 years just like what happened in the past is considered wrong now but it happened and pretending our first Prime Minister didn't exist won't change anything.

Nancy Stafford

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From: Sent: September 2, 2020 2:33 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Holding court statue

CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Get it off of Main street for sure! Move it to the old County jail former court house.It will fit in well with the history of that building.Note: why is the old jail not being used as a visitor/tour trip with a fee guided tour that explains the cells, hangings, ghost walks etc. ______

From: Cynthia Hutton Sent: September 2, 2020 3:20 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court

CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Page 145 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

Hi Emily, I think there should be a plaque along side the statue that could state that while he was our first Prime Minister he was the orchestrator of atrocities against our First Nation peoples. I think that removing the statue does nothing to acknowledge the harm that he did. State the harm, learn from our history and work towards reconciliation with our First Nation Peoples. In Germany they acknowledged the atrocities that were done to educate the public and what is needed is education. Thank you for your time. Best regards, Cindy Hutton. ______

From: Rustige, Rona Sent: September 2, 2020 4:26 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John

Please leave it. He was our first PM and nothing can alter that.

Rona Rustige

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From: John Shifflett Sent: September 2, 2020 4:47 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject:

It's Canada, it's our history, protect and preserve it as it stands. There are a lot more non-protestors than those protesting. Go with the majority in a province wide vote at the next election.

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From: Walt Lindgren Sent: September 2, 2020 5:21 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A. statue

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My wish is the the statue should remain. The cry to remove it is surrounded by the negatives that seem to be the only focus on him. Not, any of the positive. If this is to be the case... Maybe a very deep look should be taken at the indigenous themselves! It was not unusual for returning war parties to bring back captured prisoners. Some, would be made to walk a gauntlet where their fingernails were pulled out, or ears were cut off and beaten while enduring any other indignities. Some were tortured to death and if they died what they thought was an honourable death they may take out and roast his heart and serve it among the young men as a source of courage... These are things the Indians did to each other! And, they feel because the “white man” wanted to take some of the savage, animalistic ways out of them that he is the bad person? It’s hard to understand how this isn’t spoken of today! If they were judged by today’s standards as the want our forefathers to do, they would be sent to The Hague to face War crimes charges for charges of crimes against humanity!!! Let’s have all of the truth come out if this is what it’s going to be all about. Thank you for taking the time to read my submission. Sincerely, Walt Lindgren.

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From: Doris Thomas Sent: September 2, 2020 7:10 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Statues

I think statues offer a valuable tool to parents who can explain to their children about what has happened in the past and why this person deserves to be recognized.

If the complete story is told of both Sir John A’s good and bad projects. People can learn from this and be more respectful today, now knowing the truth.

Doris Thomas

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From: Jennifer Gravel Sent: September 2, 2020 7:43 PM

Page 147 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

To: Emily Cowan < Subject: Sir John A MacDonald

You can’t erase history. He was a nation builder. Was he all inclusive? No! Did he provide leadership? Yes! Were many of his decisions good ones? Yes!

Aboriginals must let go and at the very least join in nation building. Every able person should pay taxes and be part of this great country Canada. There is room for all, equal and united, fair and just.

Is there systemic racism? You bet there is. Segregating the native population will not solve this problem. Inclusivity and fairness will.

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From: Ivan Robinson Sent: September 2, 2020 9:10 PM To: Emily Cowan Cc: Ivan Robinson Subject: Sir John MacDonald statue

I say we keep his statue with an accurate update of information.

To take down the statue, we must design a criteria for such action.

According to MaCcLAINS Magazine, Pierrer Trudeau is the most despised person in Canadian history, do we delete him and his work from Canada?

How far back in history do we go?

The Romans enslaved entire countries, murdered many,including crucifictions.

What criteria do we adopt?

Ivan Robinson

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From: Anne Hagerman Sent: September 3, 2020 9:13 AM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A statue

Page 148 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

I believe the statue should remain in Pictin where it is currently residing. He is part of our Country's and County history and that history is not going to change.

If we try to erase history we are bound to repeat it. If we learn from history then we can move forward.

Not everyone will see everything in the same light. We have to accept that and keep an open mind. We can teach our children history as long as we pass on the true facts and not warp them with our own misinformed opinions.

Please keep Sir John A MacDonald statue.

Thank you.

Anne Hagerman

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From: David Miller Sent: September 3, 2020 9:38 AM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Holding court

Greetings,

I believe the best solution to deal with this celebration of one of our founding fathers, who like many others abused his power, is to put it in a museum where it is in a more appropriate place for context and to hopefully help us to learn about our mistakes and the bloody history that is the foundation of this appropriated nation.

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From: D Chartrand Sent: September 3, 2020 10:01 AM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir JA MacDonald Statue

Page 149 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

I am writing my opinion regarding the Sir John A MacDonald statue. If we want to honour history we need to tell the truth. Either the statue goes or the plaque needs to accurately state his accomplishments, which includes being a key part in the cultural demolition, torture, and genocide of the Indigenous people.

If the plaque indicated these things, would you want to keep it? This is the question people need to ask themselves.

Denise Chartrand ______

From: Dorothy Higgs Sent: September 3, 2020 12:17 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A's Statue

Great idea getting opinions re removal of Sir John A MacDonald's statue. These statues should definitely NOT be removed or defaced in any way. Anyone caught defacing a public statue should be jailed, fined and made to pay for the damages. No one right has the right to deface/remove public statutes. These statues represent our history -- you can't change history but you can improve upon the past and work towards making things better for society as a whole.

The destroying of Sir John A's statue in Quebec was a crime. It was video taped so the police know who is responsible. They should be fined and made to pay for the damages. Tax payers dollars should not be used for this senseless act. Even the cleanup of that mess and trying salvage some of the statue will cost a lot of money and the taxpayers should be responsible for doing that. Those who do the crime should suffer the consequences.

Sincerely Dorothy Higgs Howe Island, ON ______

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From: kris mccleery Sent: September 3, 2020 12:37 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Statue in PEC

My vote is to get rid of it.

Kris McCleery

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From: Jim Ford Sent: September 3, 2020 5:21 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Dir John A. Macdonald statue

Leave statue alone. Even the best of people have "warts" on their lives. Without MacDonald Canada would not be the great country it is today.

Jim Ford, Quinte West ______

From: Britni Belisle Sent: September 3, 2020 8:46 PM To: Emily Cowan < Subject: Views on Sir John A Statue

Hi there,

Frankly , as a citizen of PEC, I am embarrassed everytime I drive by that statue. It is unwelcoming and uninclusive, and promotes hatred. People keep saying it's a "teachable moment" , but by keeping the statue alive, we're celebrating him. If we'd like to teach our children about the past, we should do so at home and in school.

Anything this man achieved during his term was on the backs of minorities, which involved many deaths. I mean, the man was the reason for the raping and murdering of thousands of indigenous women and children. As far as I'm concerned, he is no better than Hitler.

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Thanks ______

From: Jane Nicol Sent: September 3, 2020 8:53 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: The "Holding Court" Statue Working Group.

I'm against tearing down statues of our first PM. This is Canada, this is our history, and so much local history here.

Sincerely.

Jane Nicol ______

Telephone call from Leo Finnegan September 4, 2020 11:30am

I was there when it was unveiled, there were good vibes that day. I see lots of people stop and have their picture taken with the statue, they read the plaque and look at the statue. He was the 1st Prime Minister of Canada and created our country. He created the CPR and had it built across Canada. During his time the First Nations people were not treated very well but I believe the good outweighs the bad. Don't remove the statue. Are we going to erase history all over Canada? SJAM studied law, defended himself in court in Picton he was quite a statesman and knew the law. ______

From: E. Diane Turner Sent: September 4, 2020 8:42 AM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Consultation re John A. Statue in Picton

This thoughtful opinion piece from the Globe and Mail expresses my position on the issue of the John A. Statue.

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I have copied the summary in the article below the link. That summary should be our guiding principle.

https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-when-we-debate-complex-legacies-such-as-sir-john- as-we-must-not-be/?utm_source=Shared+Article+Sent+to+User&utm_medium=E- mail:+Newsletters+/+E-Blasts+/+etc.&utm_campaign=Shared+Web+Article+Links

So, where does that leave us in 2020 as these debates continue? For starters, let’s agree there are complexities to history and this issue – significant ones when you are evaluating someone who was prime minister from 1867 to 1891, save for four years from 1874-78.

Let’s continue to be sure we educate ourselves about not only historical legacies, but also about the nature of history itself. Let’s not cherry-pick the unsavoury parts, but rather add contextual plaques to statues that explain the many facets to readers.

The world is not black or white. And history is as grey as a late November sky.

Diane Turner ______

From: Ursula Cattelan Sent: September 4, 2020 10:53 AM To: Emily Cowan < Subject: MacDonald statue working group

I'm having my say: the statue is just perfect where it is, leaving in front of the library.

John A deserves to have a place in Canadian history for bringing Canada together. Ursula Cattelan ______

From: Doug Anderson Sent: September 4, 2020 11:58 AM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A.

I tend to think that Sir John A., were he alive today, might think ill of some of the policies he was party to himself. History is a wise teacher and 'trashing' monuments serves no useful purpose from a 'learning from history' perspective.

D. Anderson ______

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From: Peggy Hallward Sent: September 4, 2020 2:33 PM To: Emily Cowan Cc: John Hirsch Subject: Holding Court statue

Dear Emily:

I'm writing to provide my views on the Holding Court statue of our first Prime Minister. In brief, I think the statue should stay where it is and that an information panel should be installed beside it to provide a short summary of his contribution (mixed) to Canada.

John A Macdonald was a product of his time. He was democratically elected and reflected the views of millions of Canadians. Times change: we no longer send indigenous children to residential schools, have slaves, beat our children or prevent women from voting or working. God knows in 100 years time what people will say about our polluting car-driving fossil fuel-consuming ways. No one is a saint. In short, it's better to try to understand the past than cancel it.

Sincerely,

Peggy Hallward

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From: Nancy Fox Sent: September 4, 2020 3:47 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Comments concerning John A. MacDonald Statue

TO; THE HOLDING COURT STATUE WORKING GROUP

It is true the government of Sir John A. did initiate the school program for indigenous people which proved to be a terrible decision. However, it was not Sir John A. alone who made that decision.

The undying effort of Sir John A. MacDonald however led to the unification of all the territories making up this great country of Canada. It is without question had it not been for his foresight and effort we would all be part of the U.S.A. and there would be no Canada. How many of us, including indigenous nations, would like to see that! The U.S.A. annihilated most of their indigenous peoples with many escaping to Canada.

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Determining a safe location for this fine piece of sculpture of Sir John A. will be most difficult as vandals will find it if they so desire. We would like to see it remain where it is; where it was designed to be situated.

Yours respectively, Ron and Nancy Fox ______From: Dylan Gagnon Sent: September 4, 2020 4:47 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Input for the "Holding Court” Statue Working Group

Good afternoon,

I originally learned that the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committeeis holding consultations on the "Holding Court" statue of Sir John A. Macdonald. I'm originally from Kingston, Ontario and not a member of the Prince Edward community, but seeing as we've had our own consultative process I wanted to submit a modest piece of information.

It must be remembered that even the Chair of the Truth and Reconciliation Committee on which this consultation is based, the Honourable Murray Sinclair, did not believe that tearing down statues was productive for the goals of reconciliation. In article published in the Globe and Mail three years ago he was quoted as saying the following:

"The problem I have with the overall approach to tearing down statues and buildings is that is counterproductive to ... reconciliation because it almost smacks of revenge or smacks of acts of anger, but in reality, what we are trying to do, is we are trying to create more balance in the relationship."

Source: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/honouring-indigenous-heroes-better- than-debating-macdonald-sinclair/article36113299/

I believe that if Picton wishes to acknowledge the horrible actions taken by Sir John A. Macdonald at the time and the damage they have caused and continue to cause First Nations communities, it should add a plaque to the statue, rather than taking it down. Similarly, if Picton wishes to promote the spirit of reconciliation, it should look to add a statue, monument or some other kind of recognition of local indigenous heroes rather than destroying what is already standing, simply because it seems like a popular move at the time.

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Thank you and all the best, Dylan Gagnon ______From: Michele Lemon Sent: September 4, 2020 5:19 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Macdonald statue

I believe if we are to keep the statue, a significantly sized plaque should state that while Canadians are proud of many of Macdonald’s accomplishments on crucial human rights issues, which we care about today, he ignored, sanctioned, lead or condoned the uprooting, abuse and death of Native people. ______

From: Sheila Simmons Sent: September 8, 2020 9:41 AM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John

The statue should stay at the library. Useful to have history and other comments to explain good and bad of this human being for his time. Sheila S.

______From: Blair Ross Sent: September 8, 2020 12:01 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: A Full history of John A. MacDonald is the way forward

Good morning members of the committee,

We live in a time when many of the painful errors of Canada’s past are being addressed and hopefully corrected.

The present debate concerning John A. MacDonald is one in question.

It is true that John A. MacDonald played a key role in getting the various regions in Eastern Canada to form this nation.

If we had not formed this nation, we could just as easily be preparing to vote in November for a United States president.

He also played a central role in getting a railroad across this country.

Like every human being , he had his faults and virtues. He was against slavery and yet he did not see any problems

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with the church run residential schools. This seemed to be acceptable during that time. It was wrong yet it has set the stage for reconciliation with indigenous groups and other groups today.

If Canadians are really serious about reconciliation than the whole history of our national figures need to be presented for all present and future generations.

It is too easy to tear down statues and say we do not speak of this person. I fear the protestors want Canadians to forget people we now view as racist and responsible for social genocide. I wonder how we will fair in the eyes of Canadians two hundred years from now?

I am asking your committee to bring all of John A. MacDonald history to be displayed. That will include a story of for the residential schools.

This will not sit well with those on the extremes yet it is the only way forward. It will take more debate to form the whole truth, good and horrible.

What could well be our future if we do not embrace the whole history?

Will the churches who participated in the schools be told to tear down their places of worship. Yes, the Anglican Church did apologize and continues to seek ways for reconciliation with the various indigenous communities across Canada. Would that be seen as not enough?

Will all public statutes be removed? I wonder how long someone will question Dr. Norman Bethune? He is revered by China and many Canadians. Will his statues be removed because of the social genocide operating during the time of Mao and present China?

The tough yet Canadian vision is to exposed the full history of our historical figures.

To simply get rid of the statue will not allow Canadians to celebrate the person great achievements while addressing and correcting their equally horrible faults.

I am prepared to meet with your committee.

You may also write to me via this e-mail. I do fear to give you my home address as I expect the extremes in this debate to harass me and my family.

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This is very important! The recommendations your committee puts forward will be quoted by other communities in this region and across Canada.

From My Spot in the Vine Yard,

Rev. Blair Ross

From: Blair Ross Sent: September 10, 2020 11:15 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: RE: A Full history of John A. MacDonald is the way forward

Good Morning Emily,

There was an article in yesterday Belleville paper which clear displaced two things not known to the average Canadian.

The first is now poorly Canadians know their history and now very close we came to being annexed by our neighbours to the south.

The second is the understanding that the reconciliation with various groups would never happen if the United States succeed in the first point.

It is true that their society is drawing attention to the racism in the south as well as the demonstration with, “ Black Life Matters”.

I do hope our neighbours do succeed. I expect more violence than actual discussions.

Reconciliation is a slow road as all sides must hear and respect what the other has said.

The way forward is to respect the past, see what is the present and where we want to be in the future.

From My Spot in the Vine Yard,

Rev. Blair Ross

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From: Mike Harper Sent: Tuesday, September 8, 2020 6:14 PM To: Catalina Blumenberg Cc: William Cobban Subject: Fwd: Sir John A.

CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Catalina, Mr. Cobban has asked me to pass this on to the JAM working group (and eventually the heritage committee) for discussion/ consideration...an example of how to bring context to JAM statue.

the wording is apparently also very important/impactful , as it starts out by acknowledging there are 2 stories that need to be told....so, over to you!

thx mike

Sent from my iPhone

Begin forwarded message:

From: William Cobban Date: September 8, 2020 at 5:40:30 PM EDT To: Mike Harper Subject: Sir John A.

Hi Mike: Here’s the Kingston street-display “binder” we were talking about. This has to do with Engine1095 and Macdonald’s CPR. You can see how the binder is made to withstand the elements (like our beach displays), has an introduction stating the need to put Macdonald in context and is a simple way to succinctly present more information than is possible with a standard size plaque.

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I neglected to photograph the binder on its pedestal in front of the engine. Also, I think there are about six or eight “pages” in the binder.

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From: J Hallman at Walton Hallman Sent: September 9, 2020 9:14 AM

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To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court Statue

Sorry to add to the long list of opinions I hear you have received on this topic.

We’ve been residents near PIcton for approx. 4 years now, and I think the County has every right to be proud of its history. It is one of the reasons we chose PEC over other communities for our future retirement plans, almost without realizing it.

I think Picton should look at this as an opportunity to expand on its historical context. We need more statues to talk about and encourage dialogue, not less. Use this as an opportunity to put more funding together and create more historical vignettes in the town’s public spaces to stimulate alternative perspectives on our history. If, as a Canadian citizen, you disagree with the symbolism propose an alternative. You need only create a mechanism for expressionism and set an expectation for dialogue, review and consideration. That would be time better spent than debating removal of a statue.

A kiosk nearby the current statue would be a perfect start for the program with tracking of funding goals, a donation app, current proposals, proposed locations, etc.

I envision Picton embellishing it’s historical position by becoming even more of a cultural destination, linking it’s points of interest with its checkered past  The new port redevelopment needs a statue! There must be some characters from prohibition deserving of a statue? What about the Avro Arrow? The Miss Canada water speed record attempt? Must be an environmental scandal or two? History of the Heights? Double down on this opportunity and create some historical discussion if not controversy.

Turn this negative into a positive.

Jamie Hallman

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From: maymur2 maymur2 Sent: September 9, 2020 11:43 AM Subject: Sir John A.

Referencing the article in The Sept.9th 2020, Kingston Whig expressing Professor David Warrick's concerns about the omission of historical content in discussions about the proper treatment of the statues of Canada's first Prime Minister Sir John A. MacDonald.

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The article explains very clearly the important role Sir John A. had creating our country as an independent Nation which escaped the potential of being part of the neighbouring bullish young country to the South. Someone had to be a strong Leader to strangle the attempts to diminish the future Canada has achieved. Factually, that someone was Sir John A. and his supporting peers.

The article is an excellent source for local , even all, school History Instructors to develop several lessons for the first semester of the new school year. The historical account by the professor offer key topics for students to research . An honest discussion would be created based on the historical setting; the options and alternatives which made the decisions to be the best at that time.

Discussions regarding Sir John A.'s Statues by any group cannot be respected without accepting the positive historical contributions which made our country Canada . not Canada, USA. .

The article presented a fictional dialogue by one of many K to 12 school graduates. For example:

" Hey, cool. Me and my friends didn't know this stuff about the statue guy stickin it to those other guys tryin' to push in here. No way. Bro. Like, we d'uh been doin the same as the statue guy. Hey, think about it, bro. "

Time to step up the Canadian History content in all of our schools.

Years from now what great accomplishments of 2020 will be protested as outrageous atrocities against man and the environment. We'll miss it but it will happen. Discussion groups, be kind study the facts.

Thank you for allowing my thoughts to be expressed as an exercise of frustration with the vandalism, disrespect and hatred based on ignorance of our history. , our Canada.

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From: Neil Dukas Sent: September 9, 2020 6:46 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Have Your Say - Holding Court Statue Working Group

Macdonald is a perfect example of just how complex and nuanced history can be. Trying to understand decisions made long ago through a present-day lens is inescapably challenging work. If you are curious about the kind of thinking that influenced Macdonald's perceptions of Residential Schools in 1868, or, for that matter, what First Peoples of the time thought about them, I highly recommend Robert Carney's study "Aboriginal Residential Schools Before Confederation: The Early Experience" (click on link, especially pages 36-39, Carney (CCHA, Historical Studies, 61, (1995), 13-40)). http://umanitoba.ca/colleges/st_pauls/ccha/Back%20Issues/CCHA1995/Carney.pdf

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Yours truly,

Neil Dukas

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From: Bob Evans Sent: September 9, 2020 6:48 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A

He may be the most visible but this not a dictatorship he is not the only one making decisions. We all have made mistakes. His statue should remain on Main Street. Bob Evans ______

From: Philip Jones Sent: September 10, 2020 7:03 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Picton

Statues of historical figures are erected for a number of reasons and have value in a number of ways but they are never erected to the flawless especially when judged in retrospect. Iconoclasm is always a sign of intolerance and has destroyed much of value in the world for no gain whatsoever. It is vandalism pure and simple. Are we to go into the British Museum and other museumsdestroy all the Assyrian exhibits and remove the monument to Leonidas and the 300? I note for example UBC devotes much of the Arch & Anth Museum to slave takers i.e. the Haida. Is Spirit of the Haida Gwai to be removed from the airport in Vancouver? Why not?

Philip Jones

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From: Ruth Sent: September 10, 2020 9:05 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Statue working group

Read with interest the article in the Whig (Sept 9) about Dr. Warrick’s objections to the unfair and illogical double standard applied to the use of historical context in this debate – i.e. the indigineous people can draw their complaints from the past, but those who don’t agree with them can’t draw on history in his defence. Doesn’t do anything positive for the credibility of your report....

Also, while I assume Picton doesn’t have much in the way of a black population, or ‘black lives matter’ movement, you may or may not be aware of the fact that prominent indigineous leaders both owned and traded in slaves in earlier days. Back in the days of John Graves Simcoe, Indians captured and stole

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black slaves from south of the border and both sold them to white settlers and kept some slaves for their own use. For example, the Brants were slave owners....

No group has a squeaky clean past – and this war on Macdonald may trigger research not especially welcomed by his Indian detractors. In any case, yielding to the demands for removal of your statue because vandals have dumped buckets of paint on it a few times doesn’t send out a very good message – i.e. vandalism pays off....

Ruth Tracy

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From: Judith Pearse Sent: September 10, 2020 11:50 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Leave Sir John A where he is

Hello, Please keep the statue where it is. Sir John has earned this pride of place on Main Street in Picton. We are a proud Loyalist town and he founded our wonderful country, the envy of the world. Whatever actions he took re residential schools reflected the mood and beliefs of the times and were enacted through legal democratic process. We cannot judge from a 2020 perspective.

Sincerely Judith Pearse ______From: Mike Paine Sent: September 10, 2020 2:29 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: British Values

We need to leave our plaques and statues alone - this is part of our history which we cannot change. We however can change the future and learn from the lessons from the past - this new way of thinking is an educational stance its not brushing history aside. Our history, culture and way of life has to be protected - leave this at it is and listen to what the majority of the people want - not just a minority.

Kind regards

Mike Paine

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From: ruth and helmut hotzwik Sent: September 10, 2020 10:57 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

Dear Emily Cowan,

The above mentioned statue should stay where it is right now, by the Library.

It belongs there for the sake of knowing Canadian History.

Anyone who sees it there will be reminded that without him Canada would not exist

but this land would be part of the United States of America.

Most leaders of countries have done bad deeds, especially the ones that

started wars, or does that not count ?

It is said : The sun never sets over the English Empire. Was that achieved

peacefully without killing or enslaving the inhabitants of those aereas ?

None of this justifies the bad deeds of Macdonald However they can not be

undone nor can he be punished for them now but we must learn from them,

bringing them in the open so that people in leading positions are being

watched and being prevented from abusing their power or authority whether

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they would do it intentionally or not. Fortunately we can do this in this country

that he created.

Thank you for the opportunity to express my opinion

Ruth Hotzwik:

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From: Richard Pearse Sent: September 11, 2020 8:34 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: John A. Monument

I support the retention of the monument. It shows a young man who grew up in Glenora holding court, a young man who went on to become an important leader in the creation of this great country. He was an enlightened man of his time, and like all leaders of that time, including indigenous leaders, had his faults, many of which are amplified by the enormous change in what is believed to be acceptable today.

The Residential Schools are cited as the most important reason for his exile from Main Street. These institutions were established with the support of many indigenous leaders of the time, and were voluntary when established (not mandatory until well after his death). While many may continue to debate the legacy of the 19th century, including whether John A. should have supported the establishment of Residential Schools, mature and open debate should continue and not include the removal of the monument.

Richard Pearse

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From: Donald Coulter Sent: September 11, 2020 12:36 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Submission re Macdonald Statue- Picton

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Attached please find my submission regarding the question of the Sir John A. Macdonald statue- Main Street- Picton.

D.M. Coulter

ATTACHMENT as follows:

Submission regarding the Sir John A. Macdonald statue-Main Street, Picton The statue of Sir John A. Macdonald should remain as is in Picton.

The reasons for removal of the statue and those in criticism of Macdonald are in the most part untrue. Sir John A Macdonald cannot be faulted for many of the things that those uninformed of history have claimed. In particular he was not even in office when some of the events attributed to him took place and Alexander Mackenzie of the Libera Party was. The challenges facing both the governments of Sir John A Macdonald and Alexander Mackenzie in the 1870s were many:- a small population and land area in 1867 suddenly faced with a huge increase in area, the need to establish treaties and schools for the new territories, the establishment of policing for the area, an Indigenous population in that area facing starvation, a threat of a takeover of the area by the United States, and a promise of a railroad to link Canada with British Columbia. That the Canadian Governments were able to cope with these challenges at that time should be appreciated today. Sir John was leader of the Liberal-Conservative Party and was Prime Minister from 1 Jul. 1867 to 18 Nov. 1873 and from 17 Oct. 1878 to his death 6 Jun. 1891. The problems of establishing Canada were shared by Alexander Mackenzie of the Liberal Party as Prime Minister from 18 Nov. 1873 to 8 Oct. 1878. The government of Sir John was responsible for negotiating Numbered Treaties 1,2 in the present Providence of Manitoba, and Number 3 in the North-West Angle of the present Ontario, and for the formation of the North West Mounted Police in May 1873. The government of Alexander Mackenzie was responsible for Numbered Treaties 4 to 7 covering huge areas in the now Providences of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. Mackenzie was also responsible for the Indian Act of 1876. Sir John A Macdonald did not initiate the Indian Residential school system. The final report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, Part 1 regarding residential schools points out that Sir John did not, as some columnists have claimed, launch the Indian residential School system. The report states that the residential schools were missionary schools started as early as 1620 in the French era.

Sir John has been unjustly accused of using hunger to force First Nations people onto reserves. Of the numbered treaties only Treaty Number 6 under the government of Alexander Mackenzie had any promise of aid in case of famine. What is extremely unfortunate is that the time of the acquisition by the Dominion of Canada of the Canadian Northwest, the gradual extinction of the buffalo took place removing the main food supply of the Plains Indians and the pemmican vital to the northern fur industry. Although supplying food was not a treaty obligation for other than Treaty Number 6 signators, this was a moral obligation for the Canadian Governments of the period.

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In judging Sir John A. Macdonald and his governments of the time we should be aware of the immense challenges they faced in creating the Dominion of Canada and ask ourselves “how could we have done it better.” Any statue and commemoration of Sir John is richly deserved.

D.M. Coulter Kingston ______

From: Paul Allen Sent: September 11, 2020 2:46 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Cc: sharon Subject: Re: HYS Portal

Good afternoon, Emily

Here's a link to an essay of mine that was published by Real People's Media on July 19, 2020: https://realpeoples.media/time-for-truth-and-reconsideration-in-prince-edward-county/

I trust the essay meets the County's criteria for additional resources on the Macdonald portal.

Thank you.

Paul Allen

*Note, only Working Group members can request the inclusion of resources to the Have Your Say site, therefore staff told Mr. Allen that we would distribute the essay to the Working Group instead. ______

From: Mary Culloden Sent: September 2, 2020 5:02 PM To: Marcia Wallace Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald statue

Whether a person agrees or disagrees no one has the right to destroy property including Sir John A.’s statue. It is my opinion that every effort should be made to find the perpetrators and they should be made to pay for the damages. “Normal” people would know it is not reasonable to try and apply todays’ beliefs to someone who lived 150 years ago. The perpetrators of this crime are no better than common

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criminals. Hopefully the police can find pictures and/or videos to lay charges and have the court order the perpetrators to pay for the damages.

As the saying goes “let he who is without sin cast the first stone”. No matter what Sir John A’s faults may have been, he had the wisdom and foresight to establish this country to be known as “Canada”. What have these miscreants done for this country except cause damages for which the taxpayers will incur the expense of repairing it. I hope Council takes the necessary action to restore the statue and ensure video is placed in a secure place to allow prosecution of any further criminal acts against the statute and any other public property.

Mary Culloden.

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From: Gillian Armstrong Sent: September 11, 2020 7:02 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court Working Group

Dear "Holding Court" Statue Working Group,

I am a resident of Picton and I would like to add my thoughts to the John A. MacDonald "Holding Court" working group. I believe the statue needs to be removed.

First of all, as a population of largely white individuals, I already believe that the County remains at a disadvantage in this discussion. By advocating to keep the statue, residents are ignoring the trauma associated with Canada's long history of mistreating Indigenous communities.

Statues are not history and removing a statue does not erase history. For example, you will not see a statue of Hitler in Germany but everyone continues to know who he is. You do not need to celebrate men who did irreparable damage during their leadership. The statue of MacDonald is tied to a history of genocide and brings many immeasurable pain. The removal of the statue may upset those who want to keep it but it does not match the level of pain that others feel in regards to the statue's existence.

Adding information about MacDonald's racist policies along with the statue does not remove the root of the problem. Seeing that statue reminds Indigenous people that Canada values the history of white men

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over their beliefs, culture, and lives. If we are placing the opinion of white men (or women) above the opinion of Indigenous communities advocating for the removal of the statue then this working group discussion has already failed.

Thank you,

Gillian Armstrong

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From: m martin Sent: September 11, 2020 8:12 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: MacDonald statue

CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

Dear Ms Cowan,

Regarding the debate surrounding the statue and its location, please note that I do Not agree with sanitizing our history and removing the statue.

I strongly believe we should take the opportunity of the learnings...provide the appropriate context; acknowledge the mistakes of the past, as well as the contributions, and accompany the Mac statue with perhaps one of indigenous leadership of that time. And what better place to have this learning but at the steps of our venerable library!

To me that could teach us and future generations much, as opposed to simply deny the existence of our history by removing the statue from the library square in an effort to take it out of sight and pretend its non-existence....a silly and narrow approach to the issue.

Thank you,

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M.E. Martin

Cressy

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From: Jesse Hatch Sent: September 12, 2020 11:50 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: On "Holding Court"

Good afternoon,

I'm writing you to express my concern and distaste for the Holding Court statue on Picton main street. As someone who was born and raised in PEC, I have a deep appreciation for our often welcoming, safe community. That being said, a statue like this, which valorizes some of the darkest parts of our history as a country, is the antithesis, in my opinion, of safety. For many Indigenous people in our community or those visiting it, the statue honours a man whose Indian Act and residential school system tore families apart, decimated the culture and language of entire nations, and was an integral part of the colonial genocide settlers committed.

As a settler myself, I continue to benefit from this legacy. Decolonization and reconciliation is our only path forward to attempt in making some of these wrongs right. To have a statue like this mere kilometers from a reservation is a blatant sign of disrespect and ignorance to the people who stewarded this land long before our arrival. To the point that we must remember historical figures rather than tear down and erase, I would absolutely agree with the latter. Let us continue to talk about John A. Macdonald but let us talk about his work frankly and without the illusion that this statue perpetuates. Let's talk about what it means when a documented racist, misogynist has created our systems. Where does his personal violence show up in our collective laws? And who can we acknowledge and valorize instead?

We have modern day heroes like Kent Monkman living and creating work in our community right now. We are lucky enough to have brave people that have spoken out against this kind of violence living in Canada; Jody Wilson-Raybould, Jaime Black, Rebecca Belmore, Thomas King, Joseph Boyden and so many more. How can we take down this statue and honour those voices instead? When will we begin learning our real history rather than casting in bronze people who have done nothing to earn such an honour?

Thank you for your time and consideration.

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Regards,

Jesse

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From: Stan Gibson Sent: September 13, 2020 2:31 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. statue

Dear sirs,

I( wish to see the statue remain on Main Street.

Without Sir John A. there would be no Canada and no conversations about this situation. We would be a part of the U.S.A. and the Indigenous people would be far worse off.We would all be worse off. All Canadians including Indigenous Canadians are so fortunate to be living in our great country of Canada.

Sincerely,

Stan and Marie-Rose Gibson

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From: Patti Wolfe Sent: September 14, 2020 8:44 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Macdonald statue

Good morning...

The statue should stay where it is - in front of a place of learning. Perhaps add a plaque, that gives further information & encourages one to go into the library to learn more.

Destroying, vandalizing, removing or hiding a statue does not/will not change history.

Macdonald was man of his time & his actions reflected that. Were all his policies good ones ? No. Was he flawed ? Yes. Show me a politician who isn't !

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Sadly the school system does not provide enough nor a balanced picture of Canada's history. Perhaps protests should start there.

Thank you,

Patti Wolfe, Milford

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From: Wayne Crann Sent: September 14, 2020 1:34 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A MacDonald statue feedback

Good afternoon Emily,

I understand the County has asked for input on Sir John A’s statue.

I believe that the County should not cower to the cancel culture movement and keep the statue where it is. It’s a great example of our history in the County and his contributions as a lawyer prior to becoming a Politian and ultimately our first Prime Minister. It appears people in this movement are quite naïve if they think if you don’t see it, it didn’t happen or will go away. Sir John should be recognized and celebrated for his overall accomplishments bringing Canada together as a country. Every leader or person operated with a different set of norms back in the 1800’s then we do today. It’s important to understand that what is acceptable in today’s world in treating people of different race, colour, background or gender identity equally and not repeat what was common practice in the past. If we don’t understand history we are doomed to repeat it.

Thanks for the opportunity to express my views on this matter and best of luck managing this sensitive issue.

Cheers,

Wayne Crann OLS, OLIP (Ret.)

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From: reg zima Sent: September 18, 2020 5:30 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir JAM statue at Picton Library

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I love the Sir John A MacDonald statue in front of the Picton library and was most distraught when it was damaged earlier this year.

If it wasn’t for this man we would not have many of the freedoms that we currently enjoy in Canada.

This statue represents his early life in Picton and I think it’s a great tribute to someone who was so influential.

Let’s not try to rewrite history but remember this man for his great accomplishments.

If possible I would like to see the statue moved in to the new library so that it can be protected from future vandalism.

Kind Regards,

Reg Zima ______

From: Carol Zuber Sent: September 18, 2020 11:01 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Statue

Please keep the statue. Use it as an opportunity to teach how times have changed. What was once acceptable is no longer tolerable. Explain why. Open learning, lest we forget. He did good things, and bad for Canada. He is a major park of the history of Canada. This is an opportunity for us all to learn, to be better. Carol

C Zuber ______

From: Mary Lynn lester Sent: September 20, 2020 10:59 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court Statue working Group

To all it may concern,

I would like to inform all of you of my extreme disappointment if the Sir John A . MacDonald statue is removed from Main St. The statue represents our history, good , bad or otherwise. As a third generation practicing Catholic in Prince Edward County , I was aghast when my Father , having lived in the County all of his young life, told me stories of “people “ burning crosses on Glenwood cemetery hill. When I stated that I didn’t realize we had black people living in the County when he was growing up, he stated the burning of the crosses was not against the black people , it was against the Catholics! This is history whether or not I personally like it, it happened by people who we probably have lots of portraits and statues and history books about here in our stores, schools, museums and libraries. We need to know

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about these people of the past and statues are one small way of initiating the conversation. To try and ignore this and other historical figures in our community demonstrates ignorance on our behalf.

Let the statues, books, portraits and crosses stand and tell the stories, good, bad or otherwise.

Yours truly,

Mary Lynn Lester. ______

From: Ed Waitzer Sent: September 19, 2020 5:15 PM To: Information Subject: Sir John A sculpture

We’d be happy to purchase the sculpture, should you decide to remove it from in front of the public library.

Ed Waitzer

Stikeman Elliott LLP Barristers & Solicitors

5300 Commerce Court West, 199 Bay Street, Toronto, ON M5L 1B9 Canada

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From: Don Ross Sent: September 21, 2020 7:03 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Our input on the Sir John A Statue for the working group Hi Emily, We respectfully submit to the working group these thoughts concerning this contentious issue. As residents of Prince Edward County since 1980 and proud Canadians who are in our 60's, this statue on Main St Picton has never made us feel honoured or proud. Instead, it highlights the shameful acts that took place during this period of time in our country. This statue belongs in a museum, such as McAuley House perhaps. There people can freely choose to go and view it while learning all about the associated history. The good, the bad & the ugly. Standing in the heart of downtown Picton is a blatant affront to everyone who finds it

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,and the associated history of the man , to be offensive and demeaning. Leaving it where it is now, in full public display, will never lead us towards reconciling the harm done to our First Nations People. Take it down and put it behind doors where it can be voluntarily seen by those wishing to do so of their own free will. Thank you for consideration of our wishes. Sincerely,

Don & Heather Ross www.countysustainabilitygroup.com www.ecosia.org - Switch to the search engine that plants trees Power your home with 100% Green electricity www.bullfrogpower.com

" Be the change you wish to see in the world. "- Gandhi

______From: Finn Stanners Sent: September 21, 2020 12:11 PM To: Emily Cowan Subject: Macdonald Holding Court

Hello,

Thank you for engaging with me on this matter. My name is Finn Stanners, I currently live in Picton and grew up in Bloomfield. I appreciate that the community is being consulted about the statue and would like to share my thoughts and findings.

I am not in support of the statue, and I don't believe it should stay at the library or anywhere else. It is an indisputable fact that Sir John A. MacDonald was at the head of the genocide committed against Indigenous people. The statue represents Sir John A. in a positive, celebratory light, ignoring his actions and legacy, and thereby supporting them. We are a nation which claims to champion "Truth and Reconciliation" but chooses only to teach a whitewashed version of the history of the past 200 years. This is what the statue represents in my opinion.

I agree with supporters of the statue in that we should not try to forget Canada's history. What I fail to understand is why the statue is an accurate way of remembering that time, or the man himself. It is not certain that the events depicted in the statue even happened, while the details of the genocide and his uniquely cruel and strategic manner are widely recorded. We are not trying to remember that all land in Canada, treaty or not, was stolen from Indigenous peoples, and that the genocide Sir John A. was instrumental to continues today. We are not trying to learn the true history of Canada, or of Prince Edward County, and we are not trying to learn how we actively participate in the ongoing genocide and colonization today.

I believe that it is the responsibility of local government and public works projects to make accessible the true history of Canada to the public. If historical statues are considered an opportunity to do so, they must do so accurately. There is nothing in the statue that represents MacDonald's work or nature as he has been documented. There is no reference to further information or attempt to educate the public about our actual history. If you did not know who he is, you would see a person with a pleasant expression, gesturing intelligently to the court. If you knew he was the first prime minister of Canada, it's

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safe to assume you would have a positive connotation towards him after seeing the statue, and it seems that is its intention. Visitors are encouraged to sit in the chair and get their picture taken. This is not a small thing, this is a public space devoted to celebrating and encouraging others to celebrate a man whose legacy is genocide, while ignoring the genocide ever occurred. His policies are the root of our policies today; it has not been more than 200 years since he was prime minister and his effects are still lasting. We can't dismiss a statue such as this as superficial, as it has the power to sway public opinion, and push us away from the work laid out by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada.

I am a white person in Canada and I do not think we have the right to decide what statues go up and what parts of history we publicly celebrate. We are not a nation moving towards reconciliation, we are a nation that craves a simple escape from shame. We can't forget that less than 300 years ago, our ancestors contributed to genocide. We can't ignore that our actions today are contributing to it as well. Creating a statue like this one is an attempt to distance ourselves from actual truth or reconciliation, and instead continue writing a fantasy history for ourselves. There is no doubt in my mind that the statue is contributing to the erasure of Indigenous peoples and the barriers we have put up against decolonization. The statue must be removed and a commitment must be made by Council to the Indigenous community. This cannot be a new statue or a brief speaker series. Council must consider a way to move forward that includes all people and all of our history. Prince Edward County consideres Indigenous history long gone from this place, This is a failure of our government that we must correct.

Thank you for your time,

Finn Stanners

They/them pronouns ______From: Blair Ross Sent: September 22, 2020 11:34 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Cc: Subject: A better understanding of "Full History" for John A. MacDonald

Good Morning members of the committee.

I e-mail you a few weeks ago requesting that the statue remain and a “Full history” be presented.

A timely example of this is the 100th – Anniversary Issue of, “ Canada’s History, Formerly the Beaver”.

It is at Chapters stores or on line at: CANADAHISTORY.CA|OCT-NOV 2020.

The magazine has reviewed previous articles of the” Beaver”.

It is the history of the Hudson Bay Company’s experiences with the various communities in the north.

What I enjoyed was now the editors presented the various views of the communities. This process allowed for a deeper appreciation for the then held views.

The stories were ready to celebrate what was good while also revealing the problems to come.

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I do urge you to purchase this magazine and read it a few times.

At the very least, do read the article by Janet Walker and Joanna Dawson. You will find this paragraph on page 97.

“ Working together, we must commit to engagement with diverse communities, seek out new storytellers and stories, and understand and accept that the problems of today are rooted in history.

Collaboration is crucial if we ate going to successfully learn from and share history that is inclusive, truthful, rich with context, and reflective of the lives of Canadians.”

I urge the members of the committee to be bold as this edition of the “Canada’s History” magazine has been.

They have demonstrated that a full history can be presented by truth and collaboration.

It is my desire that the Picton Council, like future city councils, will reflect on this new road BEFORE they vote on whether to retain the statue of John A. MacDonald , or any other plaque of history.

From My spot in the Vine Yard,

Rev. Blair Ross

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From: ruth and helmut hotzwik Sent: September 23, 2020 10:03 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

Dear Emily Cowan,

I hope it's not too late to voice my opinion.

Sir John A.'s statue, the founder of this country Canada, which accepted all of us immigrants, including himself, to work and live here, should stay where it is right now.

He is not sitting on a horse like a famous General

or shows a chest full of medals like a war hero, but stands there as a working man, a lawyer in his case.

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About his bad decisions during his working time as Primeminister :, they can not be undone, but all leaders that came and still come after him should learn from it and do better , on hopes.

Helmut Hotzwik

Picton

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From: richard linnett Sent: September 25, 2020 5:34 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Statue issue

Sir John A was instrumental in the founding of this country, we should celebrate that. If his behavior well over a hundred years ago does not meet todays standards, so be it. I am sure that much of what is being done now will be deemed inadmissible by the year 2100, we cannot judge by future mores.

Much of current Canadian culture hails from European roots, the UK and France were the invaders and brought their culture with them. That is not to denigrate cultures that were here before the Brits, it is not to downplay any more recent cultural contributions, the merging of all cultures gives Canada a unique value.

The current fad is to find fault with historical figures and then try to write them out of history, I have many concerns about this bandwagon driving the conversation, it would be too easy to just follow along with the trend and remove the statue only to find that Macdonald is exonerated in ten or fifty years, at which time we would want our statue back.

The old saying Act in haste, repent at leisure is very relevant.

Richard Linnett

Brummell Road

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Athol

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From: Don Ross Sent: September 25, 2020 6:54 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Comments by Ann Maclellan re- Sir Joh A “ Holding Court” Statue working group

I used to live in Milford and still look on this part of the world as home - even though I live in Amherstview now. Being with Heather and Don Ross this evening I got the opportunity to hear more about the Macdonald statue in Picton, and Don made his computer available for me to get a word in on this topic. I worked at an Indian Residential School way back in the early sixties. I went to work there knowing nothing about Native people or what the schools were really about. I found out on my first day there and my time there changed my religious views entirely, and educated me about what my Scottish ancestors did to Native people on this continent. John Macdonald should not - NOT - be celebrated through a statue. He is a person we should be ashamed of - not celebrated because he was the first prime minister or for any other reason. He harmed Native people in many, many ways. Take that statue down. Ann (James) Maclellan. (September 25/2020)

Don & Heather Ross Www.greatcyclechallenge.ca/riders/DonRoss www.countysustainabilitygroup.com www.ecosia.org - Switch to the search engine that plants trees Power your home with 100% Green electricity www.bullfrogpower.com

" Be the change you wish to see in the world. "- Gandhi ______

From: Gabrielle Holowacz Sent: September 25, 2020 7:44 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

Dear Emily Cowan,

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I think that the Sir John A. Macdonald statue should be kept right where it is. He is an important historical figure and a Father of Confederation The statue is also a piece of art. We should not have to bow down to the wishes of a vocal minority who wish to take away our freedom of speech and want to cancel culture.

There are two online petitions at www.change.org. The people wanting to keep the statue number 1606 and the people for removal are half the number at 853. Here are the links for you- https://www.change.org/p/all-canadians-petition-to-keep-john-a-macdonald-sculpture-at-the-picton- library-friends-of-macdonald and https://www.change.org/p/prince-edward-county-mayor-remove-the- john-a-macdonald-monument-holding-court-from-main-street-picton-ontario/sign. That sends a clear message that most of the population would like to keep Sir John.

I am a County resident. Some of the people wanting to be rid of the statue don't live here and therefore should not get a vote.

Thank you for your attention,

Gabrielle Holowacz

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From: Paul Boelen Sent: September 26, 2020 8:36 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. Statue

My feeling is that the Macdonald statue should absolutely remain in place. He was an incredible individual without whom there would be no Canada. He is an unmatched leader and someone who has accomplished more than all the nay sayers combined. You cannot change history removing a statue and we need to celebrate his positive and lasting feats. Be thankful we live in Canada and be thankful to Sir John A. for that.

Paul Boelen

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From: Stephanie Byrne Sent: September 26, 2020 8:59 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. statue

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Hello, I’m writing to provide feedback about how to proceed with the Sir John A statue on Main St in Picton. Thank you for opening this dialogue to reflect on our practice, policy, and who we are as a community.

The way the statue was celebrated in town with the unveiling ceremony when it was erected and how it is promoted on our tourism websites suggests that we are presenting the history and legacy of Sir John A as a proud one. The prominent position of the statue in town suggests that our connection to Sir John A through his beginnings here in pubic life are to be celebrated.

It does a terrible disservice to the dark and violent history he mandated and sends a clear message that PEC is proud of its connection to this colonial history, and that white supremacy is firmly rooted and supported today. As I have watched my own white children enjoy taking pictures with the statue and sit in the defendant’s chair, I see how we insidiously normalize and center the colonizers’ history. We have other opportunities and places in the County to review this history in a more fulsome, and accurate, way; if we don’t, they must be created.

The statue must be removed and relocated to make a statement that the people of PEC, the people with power and privilege as they represent their constituents, are at least attempting to move in a direction of inclusion and anti-oppression.

Thank you for taking the time to consider my feedback.

Stephanie Byrne Shaw

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From: David Burn Sent: September 26, 2020 9:43 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A's statue.

This statue in itself is a wonderful feature on Main St and is well presented and positioned just where it is.

Clearly a few residents are offended but do not let us act like our American neighbours.

In fact but for Sir John we would in all likelihood now be Americans ourselves.

Please let the committee be briefed on the recorded history and thereby know that he was not responsible for the outrageous actions imagined by his detractors. Then I trust his statue will not be hidden from view!

His government’s treatment of our indigenous peoples is far superior to that of his neighbours to the South but I fear their misdeeds are being wrongly attributed to Sir John.

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If the assault truly gains traction I urge Council to await the result of a poll of all County residents eligible to vote because I believe better than 90% support the status quo.

Will the name ‘Picton” be next on the revisionist agenda?

O Canada,

David Burn. ______

From: Joshua Benhaggai Sent: September 26, 2020 10:48 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: The Sir John A. Macdonald statue "Holding Court"

In the past statues of prominent people were erected to recognize their outstanding achievements. In that past we the people did not have any say in the matter. Time has since changed with rights and freedoms to all people and thanks to technology for world wide communication atrocities such as genacide will not reoccur. At this point in our time, being the 21st century as we are able to be more informed and because we have access to this technology we see statues as glorifying and one sided. The status and recognition themselves are not the problem, the story behind it is. Statues should be looked at as a reference to our past without bios. It is time to make a change/correction not by destroying history but by using it for educational purposes. The only way to achieve this is by having a full and truthful biography on all the events bad and good leading to the achievements of the person or persons depicted in the statue. The truth, the whole truth and nothing but. This way we can unite people of all races not only by admitting mistakes of the past but also by recognizing the outstanding achievements of others

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From: Geoffery Quinn < Sent: September 26, 2020 11:32 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A Macdonald

It seems to me the modern pop culture likes to protest everything. During the national anthems at a recent NBA game it became evident that today a rebel is a person who stands for the national anthem and is a patriot. Catering to squeaky wheels is a very slippery slope as It will be impossible to appease those people, they do this as a form of entertainment. Whoever dump paint on that statue committed a crime and they should be dealt with appropriately even if Sir John A did everything they accuse him of. The young people today have to learn that they must take appropriate steps to deal with issues they believe so strongly in, and vandalism is not how it should be done.

With that said If the statue is going to be removed I may be interested in purchasing it and displaying it my own private property, as I do admire that statue.

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Regards, Geoff Quinn ______

From: [email protected] Sent: September 26, 2020 12:40 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Cc: Information; David Warrick; 'Sally and Bill Cowan' Subject: Statue

PEC took possession of the statue in trust. It publicly promised to maintain it and to protect it. And It took the 10,000 dollars for that purpose. It would not even cut the grass on a regular basis nor would it spend 100$ on a wifi security camera mounted on the roof of the armory mall or the library which would have prevented the midnight vandalism. If PEC will not protect the statue the vandals win. And the statue should be moved.

Thank You,

Richard Byers, Picton.

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From: rsavery Sent: September 27, 2020 10:25 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: l would leave the statue in pla e as a reminder of that sadtime in history also as a reminder of his leadership in making history for a struggling country a plaque e.

acknowledging hie error serving in a humble way as an apology. rcarman avery

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From: rsavery rsavery Sent: September 27, 2020 6:19 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Fwd: Re: NOTICE: Consultation on Sir John A. statue closes October 2

Agood story regarding Sir John A - online reading - the ceremony re the opening of the Murray canal - a bit of unanticipated humour - another read altho not related to Sir John is the treatment of the First Nations is The Gun Powder Treaty - my thoughts being that the British were a pretty nasty lot when it comes to the natives not just Sir John.

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i knew a lady - a brilliant historian - who lived in the county - who told me that the U.E.Ls never would have survived without the aid of the natives - who provided deer for food and moss for baby diapers - just a couple of examples of the good and the bad in our history.

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From: Jane Elson Sent: September 28, 2020 8:03 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court

I say keep the statue on display somewhere prominent—after all, Sir John was our first Prime Minister. He is part of our history and we can’t just erase history. I would suggest putting up a plaque as well listing both his good and his bad points. If we just hide away these things it’s like an ostrich putting his head in the sand. Own up to our past, don’t bury it, so we can learn from our mistakes and hopefully improve, Sincerely, Jane Elson

Sent from my iPad ______

From: David Frum Sent: September 27, 2020 9:22 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Cc: David Warrick Subject: Macdonald in Picton

I posted this in the Wellington Times, I hope of interest to you in your important work

http://wellingtontimes.ca/studying-our-past/

David Frum

I want to congratulate The Times for its thoughtful defence of the John A. Macdonald statue, raised in Picton thanks to the good efforts of so many patriotic residents of Prince Edward County. It seems incredible that people who live in Canada, enjoying Canadian peace and freedom, would begrudge an honour to the founder to whom they owe so much. We build a better future by studying our past. Where mistakes have been made, or wrongs done, they should be acknowledged and remembered.

But the project to remove Macdonald’s statue from Picton Main Street is not remembrance. It is libel.

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You can blame, if you wish, John A. Macdonald for not devising better answers to the food emergency faced by the Plains Indians in the 1880s. By all means, teach Canadians to reckon with the whole of their national story in all its complexity. It is naive to sugarcoat the past. But to misappropriate the word “genocide” from the state-sponsored mass murder of the worst regimes of the twentieth century and apply it in Canada— that is a slur upon Canadians and an insult to the memory of the victims of Nazism and Communism.

In most other nations of this hemisphere, national independence was achieved by men of war: Washington, Bolivar, Morelos, Belgrano, O’Higgins. Uniquely in Canada, nationhood was built by peaceful means. The founders of Canada compromised and haggled and knocked on doors for votes—much as Canadian politicians still do after 150 years of successful and continuous democratic self-government, undefiled by coups, revolutions, and civil wars. Almost nowhere else in this hemisphere from Alaska to Argentina can such a thing be said.

That proud history should be remembered with honour. And where better to remember it than right here in Prince Edward County, where a young Macdonald argued the first case of his legal career?

DAVID FRUM, WELLINGTON

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From: Margaret Watson Sent: September 27, 2020 2:09 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: SIR John A

Sent from my iPad First , I would like to state the obvious,we cannot change history, but we can learn, not to repeat past mistakes. Sir John A , was only one, of the 32 to attended Charlotte Town Convention in 1864. The group included George Brown .Etienne Carter, D'Arcy Mc Gee and Alexander Galt. These men and others had the foresight to form this great Country. Many of whom left long legacy's to this Country they created. Of the foundling fathers, we know many poor decisions were made along the way ,as was in all of the so called, civilized world in 1864. That being said ,were they any worse than other colonizers of the times?, and look at what they created ,Canada a country to be proud of, bad judgement and all. It's now up to the present and future citizens ,to create a kinder Canada with equality and compassion for all. My family support moving Sir John to the Picton Court House. Margaret R Watson. .

P ______

From: Marc Seguin Sent: September 28, 2020 10:42 AM

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To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: My views on the future of the "Holding Court" John A. Macdonald Statue

I believe that presenting the history of any person or event, warts and all, is the best way to go. Rather than applying only current feelings and outlooks onto our imperfect past, let’s present the whole story, as best as we can, based on ALL of the evidence available to us. Let’s not make things up about our history that are not true. Lets not erase the history that can be documented as fact. Let’s add to our history and celebrate a fuller view of our past.

I would like to comment on Sir John A. Macdonald in general, and about the “Holding Court” statue in particular.

SIR JOHN A. MACDONALD

There has been much talk, and much confusion, about what Sir John A. Macdonald did or did not do to Aboriginal groups in Canada while he was Prime Minister of Canada. I have seen several newspaper articles that quote various persons who have made disparaging remarks about Macdonald, and I’m sure various social media platforms are replete with negative comments about him. However, I have never seen a single well-documented article or report that even attempts to summarize Macdonald’s so-called “evil doings”. Newspaper articles quote individuals who may or may not have seen such reports, but the reports are not quoted, just the opinion of the interviewee is mentioned… and we certainly cannot rely on the veracity of claims on social media which are backed up by nothing more than re-posts of Facebook pages and re-Tweets of Twitter comments.

On the other hand, there are mountains of scholarly works which fully document Sir John’s political career, and most of them present a litany of great things that our first prime minister accomplished. Here’s only a few of the books about him:

Donald Creighton, “John A. Macdonald, Confedeation and the West”, 1967

P.B. Waite, “Macdonald: His Life and World”, 1975

Richard Gwyn, “John A: The Man Who Made Us”, 2008

Richard Gwyn, “John A: Nation Maker”, 2012.

It takes a great deal of time and effort to put together a comprehensive report on a historical subject. The historians who wrote the books listed above collectively spent decades doing that. I’m sure

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that the Holding Court Statue Working Group does not have the time to produce a well documented report summarizing what Macdonald did to whom and when, yet without that vital information it will be impossible to make any valid decisions.

Such a report would show things like…

— in 1876, when the Indian Act was voted in Parliament, Sir John A. was not even the Prime Minister! The PM at that time was Alexander Mackenzie (another potential “next target”) — in 1885, Macdonald personally pushed the Franchise Bill through Parliament amid protests from both the Liberal opposition and from his own Conservative caucus. This Bill gave the vote to many indigenous persons and it remained in force until Sir Wilfred Laurier’s Liberal government repealed it in 1898 — in 1894, the Indian Act was amended to “establish an industrial school or boarding school for Indians” and “for the committal… of children of Indian blood under the age of sixteen years, to such industrial school or boarding school, there to be kept, cared for and educated for a period not extending beyond the time at which such children shall reach the age of eighteen years.” This was was real beginning of what we now call the “Residential Schools”. [‘An Act to Further Amend the Indian Act’, “Senate and House of Commons Bills, 7th Parliament, 4th Session”, 1894, pp. 1063-1064.] However, in 1894, Macdonald had beed dead FOR THREE YEARS!

THE “HOLDING COURT” STATUE

Was this statue specifically erected to recognize a person who may have done serious wrongs to Aboriginal peoples? The answer is NO.

Was this statue specifically erected to commemorate any event that may have had a negative impact on Aboriginal peoples? The answer is NO.

Was this statue erected to memorialize a Prime Minitster of Canada? The answer is NO.

Then, why was this statue erected?

This statue represents a young John Macdonald as a lawyer practicing law in Prince Edward County in the 1830’s. He later went on to become Canada’s first prime minister, but the statue represents Macdonald BEFORE he even entered politics.

There is no doubt that this statue would not have been erected if he did not later go on to become prime minister of Canada . However, the statue itself is of a man whose only connection to Aborignal persons at the time was acting as a lawyer defending several Aborignal men in court, and singing in a Mohawk choir! (see Richard Gwyn, “John A: Nation Maker”, 2012.)

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This statue shows a tiny portion of Prince Edward County’s history. It shows a young man arguing a point of law in a courtroom. It could easily be interpreted as John Macdonald arguing a case on behalf of one of his Aboriginal clients.

Rather than applying only current feelings and outlooks onto our imperfect past, let’s present the whole story, as best as we can, based on all of the evidence available to us. Lets not erase history… let’s add to it.

Marc Seguin Prince Edward County Resident ______

From: Ted King Sent: September 26, 2020 2:52 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald

I am a graduate of the Royal Military College of Canada and hold a degree in science. My degree required that two Arts subjects be included in my studies. I studied Canadian politics for two years as well as Canadian military history (which extended from early settlements through to WWII). Sir John A. Macdonald rose to fame during the American Civil war. His pursuit was to unite British North American colonies in order to protect them from the threat south of our border. It was a long and tedious process that spanned several years, culminating with the building of a railway across North America which allowed British Columbia to be included in Confederation. This was a monumental achievement.

Shortly after Canadian Confederation, the slogan of one presidential candidate in the United States was 54*40 or fight. This is in reference to an American thrust to push the US border approximately 330 miles north of the current 49th parallel. Canadians should be grateful for a multitude of positives that happened to us under Sir John A.

Had it not been for Sir John A., we might now be part of the United States.

History is complex. In the late 1800’s, Canadian politics and policy was still heavily subject to rulers from the United Kingdom. With the Buffalo herds decimated for their furs, and a general decline in fur trades, a major source of income for our aboriginal citizens was lost and traditional foraging became more difficult. Some of the challenges facing our native tribes is well documented in the book “Bush

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Runner” by Mark Bourrie (this book is based on writings by Pierre Radisson that were recently discovered). Relations between aboriginal groups was often hostile, and with access to modern weapons and tools, one could foresee back then where things were headed.

With the decline in traditional lifestyles, one could understand how education and training would help to bring more advanced skills to our first nations populations that would help in their survival. Was the problem the political decision to provide this support, or the manner in which it was carried out? My thesis is that the problem rests with those officials who were tasked with carrying out the policy. Is Dewdney, who had a direct hand in applying such policies to our first nations populations, responsible or Sir John A. ? Very few leaders have a direct contact with their subjects and leaders rarely see how their policies are being carried out in practice. In the book Bush Runner, when the Church was put in charge, policy failed in its execution, because “saving souls” took precedence over everything.

One must look at the big picture. Even the biggest pictures have flaws, but we don’t take them out of a gallery and destroy them. Point out the flaws, but keep the big picture because that is where the real value lies. The rebels who defaced this statue should be thankful for what Sir John A. Macdonald did for Canada.

Sir John A. Macdonald’s statue deserves to be displayed in a prominent place in Picton, to which he has a historical attachment. It gives me a sense of pride each time I pass by, and hopefully will be there for future generations.

Herbert E King Ameliasburg township

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From: David Rempel < Sent: September 27, 2020 10:22 PM To: Sheila Rempel ; T. Rob Brown; Emily Cowan <> Subject: The Fate of the John A Macdonald statue.

To whom it may concern;

Thank you for the opportunity to voice my opinion. In order to understand my perspective, you should know that I am a university history major with multiple minors including politics. I am also a retired history, civics, politics, sociology, and anthropology teacher. I have devoted my professional working life to education. I see everything through an educators' eyes. As a teacher, I made sure that my students were exposed to Canadian History, from all perspectives. We looked at our triumphs and also our

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shameful behaviour both in and out of historical contexts. I used acting, role playing, debates, field trips and guest speakers in my classes. It helped to bring the subject matter alive. It became memorable. In the case of the statue, something can be said for giving people and tourists the opportunity to learn and vent and express themselves in a constructive controlled format if desired.

This is a teachable moment in time related to the statue. Similar events are happening all over the world in politically correct societies. It would be a waste to miss the opportunity. A statue could be the focus of tours, discussions, debates and historical reenactments. The Regent Theatre could be utilized. It's perfect. Interested groups could be invited to participate. It would be a marvelous to see and hear the perspectives of all interested parties; Native Groups, historians, citizens, artists, politicians and tourists alike.

Now would be the time to lay the foundation for these plans. They could be very modest or more sweeping. Actors, summer students, scripts, debates, plays, music, period costumes all could be explored. Input from all groups could be sought. As a symbolic guesture a new wooden fence, similar to the brass witness box, might be erected around Macdonald's statue. I agree that the statue should temporarily be boxed and stored while we prepare. We will have to ultimately decide on a location too. That fence would place Macdonald on the witness stand symbolically. That is what this whole focus could do. It would also serve to protect it to a limited degree. Motion sensors with alarms could be mounted near the statue. Plaques explaining the controversy could be explored too. Even a temporary piece of tape dividing the statue could be explored symbolizing the two sides of the man and his legacy should the need arise.

This initiative would definitely attract media attention and help to bring more tourists to our community. Confederation Hall's reenactments in Charlottetown could be used as a role model. The Human Rights Museum in Winnipeg could also inspire us. We need to take control of the issue and get ahead of it or we might find ourselves in the news for the wrong reasons. A peaceful blockade of the Main Street might occur or a statue's decapitation. This is a slippery slope to control. If we don't what's next? Should we consider changing the name of Wellington too? Troops under Wellington’s command repeatedly sacked, raped and pillaged civilians that they were supposedly liberating. The acts are considered war crimes by today’s standards. Where does it end if left unchecked?

Yours truly,

David Rempel B.A B.Ed

Welllington, Ontario

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-----Original Message----- From: Paul HIcks Sent: September 27, 2020 1:14 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: "Holding Court” Statue Working Group

IN my opinion, the Statue should remain in its current place. It should NOT be removed, or relocated.

Sincerely,

Paul Hicks ______

From: Ted King Sent: September 26, 2020 9:45 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald addendum

Further to my previous email. This topic was discussed tonight with some other county residents. It struck me that what happened back in the 1800s is not unlike what is happening today in Canada. Politicians approved the operation of facilities to handle long term care of our senior citizens. When COVID-19 arrived, it readily became obvious that 1) while the policy was commendable, 2) the execution was seriously flawed and led to the early death of many senior citizens (with whom their care was entrusted). Do we blame the politicians who authorized senior care homes, or the people who run them? These flaws survived decades of neglect.

The goal of enhancing the education of our first nations citizens was noble. The use of residential schools to do this was a serious mistake in management that went on for decades. Therefore, every Prime Minister of Canada from the time of Sir John A. Macdonald up until the time that the use of residential schools was terminated must share responsibility for what happened. To be fair, if one removes the statue of Sir John A. Macdonald, one must remove/destroy the statue of every politician/Prime Minister that followed him.

Herbert E. King

Ameliasburg township

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From: Mia Lane Sent: September 28, 2020 1:01 PM To: Emily Cowan <>; Information Subject: Re: McDonald statue

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Dear Emily Cowan,

Special Projects Coordinator for the County of Prince Edward:

[email protected]

As a local artist and Prince Edward County resident of over 25 years, I was thrilled to see that a prestigious Canadian female artist, Ruth Abernethy, was commissioned to create the McDonald stage for Picton, and was not disappointed when it was unveiled. It was immensely gratifying to have our little town of Picton to be honoured with such an amazing piece of art, and one so well done. I was especially excited to see that it was interactive by allowing the public to be seated in the docket, and many visitors found delight in having their photograph taken with our founding father of confederation. It was truly a fitting monument for such an important Canadian figure. The location in front of the library is an excellent location and is a proud addition to our downtown community.

I have a few other thoughts I'd like to express about the statue.

Sir John A McDonald made many decisions in his career as a politician, some good and some not so good, like the residential schools disaster, but to make that his eternal and primary contribution to this country is unfair. I would like to point out that he didn't make that decision in a vacuum but he had adopted the prevalent western worldview of Darwinian science which preached that the races evolved separately and that the white race was superior while the coloured races were inferior, which has had dire consequences. For example, Dr. Samuel George Morton (1799-1851) "amassed the world's largest collection of human skulls to prove the theory (that brain size and intelligence goes hand in hand), and set the pattern for scientific racism for almost a century. Dr. Samuel Morton a fashionable Philadelphia physician of the polygenists school his single purpose of mind was to clear the air of this emotional issue and provide hard objective data showing the intelligence of negro, white man, and for good measure the North American Indian. Sury intelligence could be measured by skull capacity, and so it was that in the 1820s Samuel Morton began amassing one of the world's largest human skull collections. This collection may be found today in the department of physical anthropology at the Museum of the University of Philadelphia. At great

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personal risk, friends of Morton dug up Indian graves and cemeteries and contributed assorted heads. All were carefully identified as to racial origin. Morton personally measured the capacity of each, using lead shot, and carried out an elementary statistical analysis on the results which was published in the Illustrated volume Crania Americana in 1839. He died in 1851 and was regarded as a well-respected scientist of his time who had provided the world with definitive work on racial intelligence. The figures confirmed what everyone believed, that is, the white man was the most intelligent, the Indian next, and the Negro least of all."

I'm not trying to justify what they did, but in a historical context, it makes more sense, and perhaps had we been present, you or I might have agreed with this decision to create the residential schools to help these people improve their lot in life, based on the latest scientific information they had on hand. It wasn't until the late 1970s that Morton's original data was reanalyzed by Gould and he found there was no basis for Morton's conclusions, and that brain size or skull capacity cannot measure intelligence. There are numerous other scientists in his day that were also pushing this deadly theory and experimenting on aboriginal cultures, and especially in Australia and Tasmania where the natives were being hunted and killed like animals and some returned alive to be displayed in zoos as animal specimens alongside monkeys, seen as less than human.

With such scientific racism taking hold of the world, it is very understandable that McDonald and his colleagues saw the native race as in need of lifting up out of his deplorable condition. Considering the historical context, to re-brand McDonald as this singular, evil man who deliberately went about devastating the first nations, and to deny him his rightful place and honour as our founding father of confederation is wrong.

The last point I wish to make is that it is the political aspirations of the growing Marxist political group, BLM (where the founder of it has publicly stated they are trained in Marxist techniques), to rid the world of any white historical figures that may be honoured in our society and I am opposed to caving into their demands. Their ideology is creating hatred and division wherever they go. They exist to raise funds for the US Democratic party, they have done nothing to help the poorest and downtrodden in their black communities. The taking down of our statues won't achieve anything but resentment and division in our community, that, up to this point, we have had a relatively amicable and peaceful relationship with our Mohawk neighbours in Tyendinaga. While many children and parents suffered needlessly in the residential schools (sadly,

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abuses occurred not only in the native schools but in many private non-native residential schools, and government schools for the mentally handicapped), and the survivors continue to suffer, this issue must be addressed by long term professional counseling and support and not some special interest groups hell-bent on fixing the problem with another quick-fix statue removal or red paint publicity stunt being implemented all over the globe by vigilantes (and BLM and Antifa seem to be behind the vandalism in many cases). I am not in favour of catering to this way of approaching the issue, it will only add fuel to their widening demands and it will not diffuse the deep troublesome issues.

We could use more sculptures in downtown Picton, not less, and I would not be opposed if a private group was to commission another sculpture that commemorated the first nations children that died in the residential schools with their story told alongside that sculpture. Leave the Sir John A McDonald statue where it is, as it is, and thank you for listening to my perspective.

Mia Lane

______From: kfkbelle Sent: September 28, 2020 1:20 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Macdonald statue: Keep it, it is part of our history. Macdonald had his flaws and strengths. Views change over time. Find a place for the statue at the Courthouse or a museum. We can also honor modern indigenous and other Canadians who have done posit...

{The rest of the message was truncated by Outlook because it was written entirely in the subject line, we have replied to the author to let them know - staff}

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

______

From: JEFF CORRIVEAU Sent: September 28, 2020 2:43 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A Statue

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I want the statue to stay. He was our first Prime Minister and we need to remember our history, not delete it. ______From: Gord Fox Sent: September 28, 2020 4:29 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir JOHN A

Sir JOHN A’s statue has accomplished exactly what the TRC had recommended.

My interpretation of intent of the TRC was not to erase history but to listen, include, rewrite and teach our Indigenous history. To learn from our troubled past and work together moving forward for a better future for all Canadians. I did not find any recommendations that asked for the removal or destruction of any statues.

Dr. Niigaan Sinclair stated in an interview that our children watch what we do and who we hold up to ..... our children will react in certain ways.. perhaps they will reject us and then we have created conflict.... Violence is violence is violence. The recent act of vandalism towards Sir John A is an act of violence. What are these people going to tell their children?

It is time to settle down, engage in constructive dialogue and work out a path towards true reconciliation instead of sit ins and protests that only drive a wedge further into any chance of bringing people together. Martin Luther King , Mandela and John Robert Lewis saw the way forward thru non-violence. Screaming and yelling false accusations, tossing paint and spreading misinformation on main streets will only result in creating further divisions in our community. Let’s celebrate the advances that we have accomplished over the last 100’s of years. It is documented proof that we can resolve our issues if the will is there. We cannot change the past by denying its existence and we cannot change the future through false accusations and mistruths.

Sent to you by 力 ______

From: Matt Ronan Sent: September 28, 2020 6:31 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A

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Hello Emily, my wish is to maintain the Holding Court statue but have signage used to educate the public and tell the whole story-Actions against indigenous peoples included. Assigning blame to one politician exonerates the thoughts and actions of many Canadians.

This is a contentious issue and the scales of justice could be used as an educational tool for when members of the public reflect on Sir John A’s leadership and and our thoughts, actions and responsibilities as Canadians today.

Sincerely, Matt Ronan ______

From: taylorcrofton Sent: September 28, 2020 8:08 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court Statue

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

The opinion of someone from Western Canada (Intell paper story)certainly shouldn't have the same weight as the opinions of people who actually live in PEC have when making a decision on this statue.

I believe it needs to stay. It depicts an important part of PEC history.

History needs to be learnt from not hidden away and forgotten. What we do today might not be the "acceptable way " in a 100 years either but it doesn't mean it hasn't happened.

Nancy Stafford

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From: Vanessa B. Rieger Sent: September 29, 2020 1:20 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Views on "Holding Court"

Dear Town Hall and to whom it may concern.

The John A. Macdonald statue is a stain on Main Street.

Quite literally.

He stands on the ground stained with blood red paint.

You can try to clean, scrub and erase that blood stain... but it will not go away. It never will. It only comes back.

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John A. Macdonald has made a stain, permanently, on Canadian History.

By forcing indigeonous peoples to starve through famine to secure their lands, to introducing Indian Residential Schools as a nationwide program of assimilation in 1883.

Ripping children away from their families to be indoctrinated, abused and in some of the worst crimes, sterilized.

These could be considered, by today's laws and standards, as crimes against humanity.

Is this what we are celebrating on Main Street Picton?

Is this what this town wants to glorify?

Does Picton want to be known for this?

Do we really need to remind our indigenous neighbours, everytime they walk to the library?

Must we remind them of the colonial violence inflicted upon them and their ancestors.... everyday?

Doesn't that seem cruel, distasteful, culturally out of touch?

Shouldn't we as a town and a region DO BETTER?

Haven't we become better than this?

I ask these questions because to me, this statue does not reflect the ideals and morals of this town. Picton is a place of friends, family, community, creativity, hard work.... and sometimes confronting racism, especially systemic racism, is hard work.

But I truly believe that Picton is a town that can handle this hard work, and in the end put in the effort to right our wrongs, one gesture of reconciliation at a time.

The statue "Holding Court" is a monument to colonial violence, whether you admit it or not. To most indigeonous people it's a sign that reads: Your life does not matter.

Personally, I live near the statue and have to apologize for the eye sore when friends visit.

To me, this statue represents the stain on our consciousnesses that we as Canadians have to reckon with today as we confront our troubled past and history. If you choose to keep the statue, be prepared to constantly clean, scrub, and wash away that stain... but please don't pretend and act as if you think it will ever go away. It never will.

That stain is permanent.

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I do hope that the statue is relocated somewhere else, a museum, or less public spot where those trying to heal from their families' historical trauma won't be confronted by it on a daily basis on main street.

Hopefully, the municipality can replace the statue with a public artwork or figure who can inspire and bring our community together on common ground, not create conflict and division. Because in the end, public art is supposed to create joy, not despair.

I hope that you make the right decision and set the example, that racism, past, present and future, is not welcome in Picton Ontario.

Thank you for your time.

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From: Brian Porter Sent: September 29, 2020 9:57 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Cc: Information Subject: John A. Macdonald statue

To Emily Cowan;

Shire Hall,

Picton Ont.

I would like to add some comments to your public consultation about the John A. Macdonald statue on Main St. This fine piece of public art, by renowned sculptor Ruth Abernethy, tells a Prince Edward County story and deserves to remain in place. July 1,2015, downtown was packed with proud Canadians who came to celebrate the unveiling on Canada Day. Across Canada now, woefully uninformed activists, many with an intolerant political/ ideological agenda, are vandalizing statues and pushing to have them removed. A critically important leader like Macdonald does not meet their standard of human perfection. They alone will decide who to honour and who to vilify and dismiss from history. A balanced and reasoned discussion is not wanted nor tolerated. Statues are to be removed and buildings renamed. They offer only a narrow, negative view of our national narrative. They shut down public debate and spread a culture of fearfulness and intimidation.These self-righteous, protestors show contempt for Canada and its institutions and disdain for our democracy.

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The historical record has been distorted and much misleading and inaccurate information circulates. Protestors go unchallenged because so few Canadians know their history. Blaming, shaming and renaming will get us nowhere, but will produce anger and resentment in the wider population.

Mistakes and failures of the past need to be acknowledged. The solution is to add more voices and perspectives, not to erase parts of our history by renaming buildings and removing statues. We need to know and to honour those early pioneers who struggled against great odds to develop Canada and its institutions, but at the same time to acknowledge and seek to remedy their failures. Reconciliation will mean facing the dark parts of our past, including residential school policy. Reconciliation has to be a two-way street with better understanding and wider knowledge of our history on both sides.

Sir John A. Macdonald was a great Canadian leader. He helped shape Canada’s history and geography. He was one of the most interesting and important men in 19th century Canada and was essential in the formation of our country. His legacy is now examined only through a very narrow lens of residential schools, all accomplishments in nation building pushed aside and forgotten. He has been stripped of all humanity and understanding, his memory trashed, his statues vandalized and he is portrayed as a one- dimensional racist caricature. Macdonald's life story and his many achievements are largely unknown by Canadians.He was quite a liberal-minded man for his era. A man of high intelligence, with an optimistic, out-going personality and great sense of humour, he was the right man, in the right place, at the right time for Canada. History is all about context. I would like to present a few little-known facts about Macdonald.

John A.Macdonald was not “ the architect of residential schools" as the media likes to say. These schools were established by various religious denominations as early as 1828, with the Mohawk Institute at Grand River, when Macdonald was thirteen and attending Grammar School in Kingston. Eventually about one third of Indigenous children attended residential schools, most attended day schools and many did not attend school. Neither his government, nor any other government, had effective control over the way the churches operated the schools. In 1953 Ottawa introduced new regulations in “ an attempt by Indian Affairs to exert control over the schools.”

Macdonald supported voluntary education for Indigenous children. He believed that parents should decide and that their support was needed for success. In 1894 Prime Minister Sir John Thompson introduced amendments to the Indian Act that made school attendance compulsory for Indigenous children from ages 7 to 16, as a result of pressure from missionary representatives.

We cannot deny the failure and abuses, but it is wrong to make John A. Macdonald the scapegoat for a failed system that developed in the decades after his death. His government increased spending on Indian Affairs by 41% in 1879-1881, from $489,327 to $1,183,414, the third largest government expense after debt and infrastructure and coming out of an economic depression.

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John A.’s government carried out a wide-ranging program to vaccinate Indigenous Canadians against smallpox during the 1870’s and 80’s. Smallpox was a terrible scourge, over 5000 died in Quebec in 1885- ‘86. The program was expensive and difficult to implement since there were no roads or railways across Western and North Western Canada. It saved thousands of lives.

In his Franchise Bill of 1885 he got the vote for Indigenous men in eastern Canada, with no loss of treaty rights. The Laurier government rescinded this in 1898. Macdonald was thirty years ahead of time when he tried to get the vote for women included. He received several testimonials from Chiefs and Councils at Tyendinaga, Georgina Island, Rice Lake and others, thanking him for getting the vote and “ making the Indian a ’person’ in the Franchise Bill.”

In 1886 he invited nine Chiefs of Blackfoot, Cree and Peigan, to come from the West by train to tour Ontario and Quebec and see some Industrial schools, farms and factories. Cree Chief Pakan was quoted as saying," My object in going east was to get more schools for my people. Schools are what we want, to educate our children, who are thirsting for knowledge.” All the treaties in the West called for schools on the reserves when requested by band leadership.

Macdonald appointed Richard Hardisty, the first Metis in the Senate, in 1888. His granddaughter attended a boarding school in Ottawa run by Abby Marie Harmon, a Metis woman who was very proud of her Cree heritage. He recommended Thomas Green, a Mohawk land surveyor and McGill graduate to join the Dominion Land Survey in 1886.

He believed progress was only possible through prudence and moderation. His political skills helped navigate a minefield of racial, regional, religious, and linguistic differences to build this nation.This was a complex man who needs to be better known, for as his biographer Richard Gwyn said, "No Macdonald, no Canada," as we know it today.

Canada is a great success in the world, a civil, orderly and tolerant society. It is time to stop being so apologetic and so guilt-ridden about who we are and what we have built. We can stop beating ourselves up.We can stand tall and be proud of the country that we have built and are continuing to build.

Brian Porter

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From: Duane Russell Sent: September 29, 2020 1:30 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. "holding court"

It appears that an advocacy group with their own vested interests is driving this attack upon history to in some way make themselves feel better about their own history..

This is not new and history itself shows us that those in charge or winners of a war often re-write or record history for their own benefit ..

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History must always be kept in context and be driven by facts.. Selective recollection and trying to force todays standards and politics on a chosen target has no place in this discussion..

To the extreme, It’s like saying Hitler was a WW1 vet who loved dogs and was a misunderstood landscape artist.

To that end, Sir John A. was a legendary drunk (oh! the stories) and an integral part of the County’s history when he was young and of course went on to become a Father of Confederation.. something that most County folk know him and celebrate him for.

If people actually took the time to research him in the proper historical context they would realize that as a person, he was just a man of his time.

History is something that we all share (good or bad) and that we must learn from it or as part of a quote “we are doomed to repeat it”.

The unanswered question here, will be” Who or What is next”.

Duane Russell

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From: Randy McCall Sent: September 29, 2020 3:11 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: MacDonald Statue debate

I am in favour of keeping the statue status quo in its current place undisturbed.

MacDonald legacy represents the forging of this country and its very beginning. From a fundamental perspective, we cannot let his association with discrimination outweigh his achievements. His dicrimination is debatable as he acted alone at times against the mood of parliament for betterment of the Indigenous peoples. We cannot fairly apply the moral codes of today to a society from a century

Page 203 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 ago - it simply is an injustice and prejudice of its own kind. Parliamentarians of that era acted in good faith and did not know any injustice was being served. From that perspective, they are innocent of any perceived crimes against humanity. People need to find the humility to accept this no different than faults within themselves. All countries have deep scars in the history of their making. People take for granted that Canada is one of the few great remaining democracies in this world - something to be celebrated, preserved and remembered - and that is what this statue represents. MacDonald was Canada's biggest proponent in all history. Let him stand tall.

Randy McCall

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From: sally cirtwill Sent: September-29-20 8:02 PM To: Mayor Steven Ferguson Subject: Sir John A MacDonald statue

Sent for Windows 10

I’m not sure how to answer the survey .....heard about it on the news but no info as to how to respond...

Leave the statue alone. We should NOT judge history by today’s standards. Sir John was responsible for the formation of this country by pushing the building of the railway. So what if he was (by today’s standards only) a bit of a racist. So was everyone else in that era.

Please don’t jump on the bandwagon(which will die down or change in a short time) to get rid of historical figures.

I’ll bet Egypt isn’t thinking about tearing down the pyramids just because they were built by slaves....

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Thank you for your consideration in this matter.

______

From: rosalind adams Sent: September 29, 2020 4:19 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: macdonald statue

Dear Emily Cowan, I would like to share my thoughts with you and the "Holding Court" Statue Working Group on why the statue should be removed. Thank you for the work that you are doing.

WHY THE MACDONALD PROJECT AND THE MACDONALD STATUE MUST GO

The Macdonald Project in Prince Edward County is not about communicating history, as its creators and supporters suggest. Rather it is about obliterating factual history and Indigenous realities that contradict the white settler colonial narrative.

The Macdonald Project’s most potent tool is the controversial statue itself situated in front of the public library on the Main Street of Picton. The statue plays on public trust in the integrity of community leaders. The subliminal logic goes like this: a sane, moral and honest group of people would never erect a statue of a genocidal racist. Therefore John A. Macdonald could not possibly have been a genocidal racist, and there could not possibly be anything too wrong with his legacy. Sadly, most non-Indigenous people, including those who run the local mass media, do not need any more convincing than this.

But for those who do, the Macdonald Project creators, in conjunction with an unquestioning media, offer fragments about Macdonald’s legacy, and biased interpretations, that work to obliterate the most important truths about it.

An examination of a few “factoids”, and a Macdonald quote from project leader David Warrick, in a Countylive article (https://www.countylive.ca/will-verdict-youll-never-die-sir-john-crumble- in-2020/comment-page-1/) give ample proof of this.

1.) “Warrick’s presentation to Rotarians noted Macdonald negotiated purchase of Rupert’s Land, from the Hudson’s Bay Company for $1.5 million in 1869...‘There would be no Canada without this purchase. The U.S. would be the largest country in the world today,’(Warrick said)

The sale involved roughly a quarter of the continent, but failed to take into account existing residents – mainly Indians and Metis. But Warrick noted the U.S. treatment of its Indigenous citizens was even more horrific.”

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What this factoid fails to mention is that the Hudson’s Bay Company was not the rightful owner of Rupert’s Land.Rupert’s Land rightfully belonged to the Indigenous nationsand people(includingthe Siksika, Piikani,Kainai, Dakota, Stoney Nakoda, Cree, Assiniboine, Metis, and Inuit people)who inhabited it, and had exercised sovereignty on it at the time of its “purchase”, for the most part,for thousands of years.

The Hudson’s Bay Company’s claim to sovereignty and ownership of the land derived from its receiving a charter from the British monarchy, who conceived themselves as the owners of Rupert`s Land by virtue of what is basically a figment of white European colonial imagination.Known as the Doctrine of Discovery,this proclamation was originally issuedby Spain in the sixteenth century to justify Spanish expropriation of resources, and genocide of Indigenous people, in the Americas. Very simply, the doctrine granted title to any and all land in the world not occupied by Christians to whatever white Christian European nation “discovered” such land,on the invented basis that only Christians could hold title to land.

Rightfully, traditionally, morally, and inherently, Rupert’s Land was, and continues to be, the sovereign domain ofitsoriginal Indigenousnations.The machinations of various colonial power groups have never legitimately extinguished Indigenous sovereignty in Rupert’s Land, to say nothing of the rest of Canada.

All this is minimized to the point of dismissal by the Countylive article’s note that “the sale failed to take into account existing residents”. The sale was based on a doctrinethatwas, and continues to be, used as a pretext for genocide; Warrick’s statement that “the U.S. treatment of its Indigenous citizens was even more horrific,”based on the kindergartenlogicof “buthe did it too, and he did it worse!” does nothing to change the facts.

2.) “Macdonald did not start the residential schools that are so heavily criticized today.”“the first Industrial School was created in Brantford in 1828 called the Mohawk Institute – when Macdonald was 13, and in a grammar school...When it became a residential school in 1834, Macdonald was 19 and studying for his law exams in Picton...In contrast to compulsory public schools, the schools for Native Canadians were voluntary under Macdonald’s term in office, despite pressure from government to make them mandatory.”

These statements from David Warrick are aimed at obliterating the truth about Macdonald’s role as the primary architect of Canada’s residential school system. Here is what Warrick’s comments leave out: In the late 1870’s Macdonald conceived of the residential school system as a means to disrupt Indigenous people’s ability to maintain their lifeways and project their nations and their control of the land into the future,and Macdonald was completely explicit about this. He subsequently appointed his friend Nicholas Davin to study the aggressively genocidal American residential school system. Davin published his report in 1879 and Macdonald adopted its recommendations to create a similar system to deal with the “Indian problem”, explaining the project thusly in 1883:“When the school is on the reserve the child lives with its parents, who are savages; he is surrounded by savages, and though he may learn to read and write his habits, and training and mode of thought are Indian. He is simply a savage who can read and write … [T]he Indian children should be withdrawn as much as possible

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from the parental influence, and the only way to do that would be to put them in central training industrial schools where they will acquire the habits and modes of thought of white men.”And he followed up his talk with action. During hissecondterm in office 34 new residential schools were established across the country, increasing their number from 15 in 1878 to 49 by 1891.

ThatMacdonald did not establish the first residential school does nothing to contradict his instrumental role in the creation of the nationalresidentialschool system. The first residential school pre-dated the nation of Canada by over thirty years, and was one of only 7 residential school in this part of North America at the time of Confederation. These could hardly constitute a system, andnone ofthemhad anything to do with national government strategy, since no nation or national government even existed.

Warrick’s comment that “In contrast to compulsory public schools, the schools for Native Canadians were voluntary under Macdonald’s term in office, despite pressure from government to make them mandatory,”is not justdisrespectfullyworded (the term Native Canadian ascribes a national identity to Indigenous people that they rejected, and that most still reject), it is factually incorrect.

There may not have been federal legislation requiring residential school attendance butthat likely had to do with the inability of the system to “accommodate” all Indigenous children at the time,notany aspect of John A. Macdonald’s character.And in fact,where the possibility of their attending the schools existed,attendance certainly was mandatory.A representative account of this,from the time of Macdonald’s second term in office,is recorded in the Final Report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, volume I:

“Daniel Kennedy, an Assiniboine man, recounted, ‘In 1886, at the age of twelve years, I was lassoed, roped and taken to the Government School at Lebret. Six months after I enrolled, I discovered to my chagrin that I had lost my name and an English name had been tagged on me in exchange.’ Until he went to school, his name had been Ochankuga’he, meaning “pathmaker.” The name honoured a trek his grandfather had led through a Prairie blizzard. The new name, Daniel Kennedy, referred to the Old Testament’s Daniel of the lion’s den. The school interpreter later told Kennedy, ‘When you were brought here, for purposes of enrolment, you were asked to give your name and when you did, the Principal remarked that there were no letters in the alphabet to spell this little heathen’s name and no civilized tongue could pronounce it. ‘We are going to civilize him, so we will give him a civilized name,’ and that was how you acquired this brand new whiteman’s name.’ Kennedy lost more than his name on that first day. ‘In keeping with the promise to civilize the little pagan, they went to work and cut off my braids, which, incidentally, according to the Assiniboine traditional custom, was a token of mourning—the closer the relative, the closer the cut. After my haircut, I wondered in silence if my mother had died, as they had cut my hair close to the scalp. I looked in the mirror to see what I looked like. A Hallowe’en pumpkin stared back at me and that did it. If this was civilization, I didn’t want any part of it. I ran away from school, but I was captured and brought back. I made two more attempts, but with no better luck. Realizing that there was no escape, I resigned myself to the task of learning the three Rs.’”

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3.)Presumably at Warrick’s behest, the following quote from John A. Macdonald also appears in the Countylive article without any analysis or comment:“Whether itwas conquered or ceded, we have a constitution now under which all British subjects are in a position of absolute equality, having equal rights of every kind – of language, of religion, of property and of person. There is no paramount race in this country; there is no conquered race in this country; we are all British subjects, and those who are not English are none the less British subjects on that account.”

The logical inference here is thatWarrick’s desire to have this comment by Macdonald publicizedemanates from the belief that this statement is to Macdonald’s credit and illustrates something positive about hischaracter.

That Warrick seem to be unable to discern the outrageousness of Macdonald’s statement speaks volumesabout what guides the Macdonald Project and their insistence on the statue:blindness to anything but the dominant white settler concept of history.

To clarifythe outrageousness,for people who conceive themselves to beBritish subjects, being referred to as such, and being subject toBritish rule and sovereignty is a matter of national identity. For people who belong to Indigenous nations and recognize their nation’s sovereignty on the land, being cast as British subjects and beingforciblysubjugatedto British ruleon their own landis genocide.

The Macdonald Project, and the statue of John A. Macdonald constitute an affront to human decency, and attack on truth and reconciliation.The motivation for them is the desire to perpetuate white settler colonialism with all its attendant privileges, as well as all its attendant genocidal harms to Indigenous people. These things have no place in a caring and compassionate community.The statue needs to go!

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From: Kennedy Babutac Sent: September 30, 2020 8:45 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject:

Hi I'm a grade 12 student at PECI and I wanted to know why we are keeping a statute of John A Macdonald? I understand that he was the first Prime Minister of Canada, but he committed genoside. Started residential schools, and his "motto" for the schools was "To KIll The Indian Within The Child." The over hunting of buffalo to starve them and move them away to reserves. Destroyed their communities by putting the railway through those communities. He starved the "Indians" in the plains. He has done much bad, and many curel things and didn't get in trouble. So my question is Why is he still even up?

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From: Summer Boyce Sent: September 30, 2020 8:56 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: John A Macdonald Statue

I'm writing this email in regards to the John A. Macdonald statue located in picton. I believe we should consider taking down the statue and not glamourize or honour Macdonald. He may have been the first prime minister of Canada but he is also the one that created residential school and helped kick start the oppression of Indigenous people across Canada. When most people see statues they think it's to honour someone and we should not be honouring him. The statue has already caused major uproar in the community and has been vandalized multiple times. It's your time to make a stand, if we want to take a step towards truth and reconciliation we need to listen to the voices of the Indigenous people. Tyendinaga is right outside of the county, how do you think our Indigenous friends visiting the Picton feel when they see that statue? We need to stop being the oppressors, nothing will ever change if we aren't the ones to make the change. And if anything if it's decided the statue shouldn't be taken down it should be moved to the courthouse with a plaque that doesn't hide the truth and shows who he truly is.

-Summer Boyce

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From: Talia Epstein Sent: September 30, 2020 8:57 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: In regards to Sir John A.

To whom it may concern,

I would just like to take this opportunity to share my opinion on the statue of Sir John A. I believe that that statue and everything it stands for has no place on our main street. It is completely unfair to our Indigenous neighbors, community members, and visitors to make them walk past the face of their genocide every time they want to walk down the street or access the public library. As a descendant of holocaust survivors, I would be appalled if I has to look Hitler, the man who turtured my great grandparents and killed their families and friends, in the face each and every time I wanted to walk down the most central street in my community. This is the same feeling that statue inspires in Indigenous people when they see it. If removing the statue entirely is impossible, I would suggest it be moved to the courthouse in Picton and given a proper display. That would be a far more relevant way to display such a piece anyways, since it is centred around his legal career as opposed to his political one. I would also just seek to remind you that taking down the statue is not erasing history, it is recognizing the fullness of a history that has for so long been overlooked.

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Thank you,

Talia Epstein

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From: Peter McGuey Sent: September 30, 2020 8:57 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. MacDonald Statue

Good morning,

I am a 17 year old student from PECI and I believe that the statue on Main St. needs to be taken down or relocated. I think that when people look at this statue they think of glorification and only see the positive side of what this man has done. In reality however, it says nowhere on the plaque located beside him that he effectively starved thousands of plains indigenous people, enacted one of the most horrific acts in history (The Indian Act), and forced children away from their homes and effectively caused hundreds of years of intergenerational trauma and cultural destruction. Can you imagine how an indigenous person feels walking down the street and seeing this statue? I think if this statue was moved to the courthouse and MacDonald's horrific history was better explained at that location it would be much more appropriate for the community as he was a lawyer here after all. If this is not possible however it should be taken down. History is not portrayed by statues, statues only glorify and objectify. In its current location, this statue is giving people a false idea of our history in Canada and how our nation came to existence. Thank you for taking my opinions into consideration.

Regards,

Peter McGuey

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From: Austin Bryans Sent: September 30, 2020 9:05 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Regarding the removal of the Sir John A. Macdonald statue in downtown Picton

I've learned in my grade 12 Indigenous studies class that there are many issues revolving around Sir John A. Macdonald and his government. Also that these issues have warranted the proposed removal of his statue on Main Street. There aren't many alike in our small town so I would be proud to see it stay. I would argue that removing this statue is removing an important piece of Canadian history. Sir John A. Macdonald was the first prime minister of Canada who led us to achieve the great Canadian dream, a

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railroad connecting the East and Wesrern coast. I don't see the purpose in removing the statue, it will not solve any current issues surrounding Indigenous people. If we want to solve these issues we need to start conversations rather than erasing the history surrounding the issues in the first place.

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From: Madison Colton Sent: September 30, 2020 9:05 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: In Regards To The Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

Good morning,

I am a grade 12 student at PECI and I would like to voice my personal opinion on the Sir John A. Macdonald statue in Picton. However strongly I wish for it to be removed, I also believe many of the older residents in the county might have a riot if that were to happen due to it “erasing history”. Which, by the way, is not true. The statue was put up in 2015 and that was also when the 94 calls to action were put in place. Since it was put up in 2015, the statue itself has no historical value, as it isn’t as if Sir John A himself was there at the unveiling. Removing the statue will not erase history as all it actually does is glorify a man whose legacy is more negative than positive. He was a key player in Indigenous cultural genocide as he meant to assimilate Aboriginal people through things like residential schools and starvation. Today, September 30th 2020, I would like to acknowledge residential schools. Residential schools were to be one of the main weapons used to eliminate the “savage” before it grew unable to be corrected. “When the school is on the reserve, the child lives with his parents who are savages; he is surrounded by savages…He is simply a savage who can read and write” -Sir John A Macdonald. Residential schools were made to assimilate as they stripped children of their clothes and culture and isolated them from everything they had ever known. The effects are still being felt today through intergenerational trauma. I also recognize that Sir John A was Canada’s first prime minister and he has done some good things for Canada, though I am less aware of the good he has done. I believe that the statue, if not removed, should be moved to a more meaningful spot. Perhaps the courthouse, as that’s where he was actually stationed during his time in Prince Edward County. I also believe that the plaque by said statue should not only list good things about the man, but also the negative because how does one form an opinion when all the information presented is biased. Whether the statue is or isn’t there, the history still stands and having the statue up won’t change that. I believe it would have a more powerful impact if those who have actually been negatively affected by Sir John A Macdonald had the most say on whether the statue stays or goes. I would reach out to our Indigenous communities and get their take on the situation as these are the people that the statue affects the most.

Thank you, Madison Colton ______

From: Barret Joynt Sent: September 30, 2020 9:05 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A

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Good Morning Mrs Cowan,

I am emailing in regards to the Sir John A Macdonald statue debate. Personally, i believe that the Sir John A statue should not be removed but rather moved. I think the statue should be moved in front of the court house. The statue's placement today in front of the library does not have the significance that it would have if it were to be placed in front of the courthouse. Of course Sir John A was prime minister and did many things for the country of Canada, but he also chimed in on a cultural genocide. These actions have many long lasting effects on the indigenous peoples of Canada today, including intergenerational trauma, pan-indianism and also stereotypes towards this specific group of people. I believe that the statue should be used as a teaching tool, revealing all the rights and wrongs he did, showing he was not perfect and scarred a culture for life. This will help educate the people of the county as well as tourists to ensure these actions do not happen again.

Thank you,

Barret Joynt

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From: Sydney Davies Sent: September 30, 2020 9:05 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A Macdonald

Good Morning Mrs.Cowan,

I am writing to you in regards to the removal of the Sir. John A Macdonald debate. In my personal opinion, I do not think the statue should be destroyed but I do believe that it should be moved. Yes, Sir John A Macdonald did some brutal things while Prime Minister that left long lasting effects on Indigenous Peoples but we also can not just erase him from the past. I think the statue should be moved to the Picton Courthouse given he was a lawyer and the courthouse serves as a historical place in the county where people could go and discover more about the history of Sir John A Macdonald in Canada, whether it be good or bad.

Thank you for your time,

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Sydney Davies

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From: Daliah Bulgajewski Sent: September 30, 2020 9:06 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject:

Sir John A Macdonald did many good things for Canada, but those things do not make up for the genocide. Sir John A Macdonald allowed Indigenous people to starve, take away their clothing and shelter, but worst of all he had human children taken away from their families to take away their identities. These children were assaulted, starved, raped, and even murdered. Sir John A Macdonald did all of these things to humans who did nothing but welcome them and the County is keeping a statue that glorifies this man? I’ve seen people, even children, taking photos with the statue as if he was a great man which sickens me. We cannot and will not erase history but the County needs to use a different method in remembrance to educate Canadians about the whole truth. Not just the good stuff.

Sincerely, a concerned student

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From: Irvin Collier Sent: September 30, 2020 2:39 PM Subject: Macdonald Statue Picton

I as a resident of PEC and from a family that settled here in 1784 am opposed to removing or relocating the statue. Macdonald was an important figure for both Picton and Canada as a whole. While we may not agree that his actions are within our current values of today's society, we must remember that he acted accordingly with society in his day. History is not changeable. There is no one beyond reproach. Let's celebrate his good actions.

Irv Collier

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From: Annelise Noronha Sent: September 30, 2020 4:00 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: My thoughts on the JAM statue

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To whom it may concern

I am a person of colour and an immigrant in this great country of ours. Because of such, my feelings are often contradictory with regards to colonialism in Canada. Without said colonizing of Canada, my family would not have come here...india to east africa to England and finally to Canada. Without the blanket of the commonwealth and an allegiance to the Queen, I would not enjoy the freedoms Canada has to offer. On the other hand, despite having the same freedoms and rights as most Canadians, my colour leaves me a victim of racism on occasion, and often feeling marginalized when expressing my feelings on the subject.

The history I learned in school here in Canada did not include the deep racism and the outright stealing of land. It did not include the mental and physical rape of Indigenous children in residential schools. It did not include the segregation of black people throughout Canada. And it certainly did not include the darker qualities of John A. MacDonald.

As I have learned these things in the last few years, I feel a deep shame that the life I can enjoy here, even as a minority, exists because of atrocities committed to our First Nations people. When I walk by that statue on main street, John A.'s smug face gives me a knot in my stomach. A knot of shame. A knot of empathy for the actual people whose life paths have been permanently altered. Whose families have been erased from history.

This statue belongs in a museum. John A. is a large part of our history and the freedoms that "most" Canadians enjoy. And should be commemorated in a building that is meant to hold the past. Not in a public place. A public place should be a reflection of our present day society. And now that we have learned the truth about MacDonald, ours should be not to continue to torment the indigenous, nor create a feeling of shame inside many others of us. Ours should be of reconciliation, inclusion, justice and equity.

Best, Annelise Noronha

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From: Stuart Long Sent: September 30, 2020 8:26 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court Working Group - public opinion submission

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Good evening Emily; please find attached a pdf copy of my stance in regards to the Holding Court statue in downtown Picton.

Thank you for your time, have a great day

Stuart Long

*** Mr. Long's pdf is attached to this package of public feedback - Staff

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From: Julia Heintzman Sent: September 30, 2020 8:55 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Holding Court statue

To All This Concerns, I would like to make my appeal for the removal of the statue of John A Macdonald. First I would question the validity of the statue in its relation to his contributions to Picton. Understanding of course he was Canada’s Prime Minister, but he was a lawyer in Picton and...... ? I am trying to understand the importance of this statue compared to the reconciliation of our First Nations neighbours and members of our community. If we are serious about reconciliation we need to recognize the truth of the residential schools. We need to face the truth that our Father of Confederation, was the architect of Canada’s Indigenous genocide. Respec tfully I ask for the removal of this statue as a step toward healing for our Indigenous neighbours and their children. At the very least if unfortunately the statue remains, a plaque is added, perhaps highlighting John A’s speech to the House of Commons regarding his reasons for starting residential schools, which continued to affect generations of Indigenous people and continue to this day. If it is felt with such importance of having him there, then let’s at least have the full character of the man. You know so many people think it’s erasing history, but it’s the opposite...... it’s about getting history right! Thank you, Julia Heintzman

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From: Stacey Lee Kerr Sent: September 30, 2020 9:05 PM

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To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Public Feedback on the "Holding Court" statue in Picton

Hello,

Attached is a PDF of my contribution to the discussion about the "Holding Court" statue of Sir John A MacDonald in Picton.

Please let me know if further details are required in order to share my opinion, or if another format is better suited to submit it.

Thank you for the opportunity to have a discussion about this statue, even if this discussion should have happened before the inception of such a project, rather than after it has already been standing for several years.

Sincerely,

~Stacey Kerr

** Pdf submission attached to this public feedback package - Staff ______

From: Joyce Barber Sent: September 30, 2020 10:57 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Statue of Sir JAM in Picton

Thank you for the opportunity to express my thoughts about the statue. I think that it is entirely appropriate that it is located on Main Street, as Macdonald had a special relationship with the county during his formative years and remembered that time with great fondness. The statue depicts his defence of himself in his first time in court and winning his case. Some people wish to dwell only on the negative aspects of our first Prime Minister regarding the Indigenous people of his time. Certainly mistakes were made and we must learn from them, as indeed we have as we continue to make progress. However, to have his likeness cancelled, so to speak, is very short sighted. It

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is because of this man and his role in the creation of this country that all Canadians regardless of race or religion, enjoy the rights and freedoms of our respected democracy. Therefore I sincerely hope that the statue remains in its present place. Regards, Joyce Barber Wellington ______

From: Myfriendkathy Sent: October 1, 2020 7:13 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Feedback on ‘holding court’ statue

Good morning, It took me some time to find this public consultation feedback channel as, unfortunately, it is not listed on the public consultations page on the County’s website. I’d like to add my input, please: While I do understand that we can’t erase our common history, as a civil society we do have an obligation to protect our ALL of our citizens, and ALL of our citizens deserve to be valued and respected. The placement of the statue in an open, highly visible space that takes away our choice as to whether we experience it is actually disrespectful. Those whose family and community members suffered terribly and died as a direct result of MacDonald’s actions and policies are hurt, disrespected and marginalized every time they walk down our Main Street. They have no choice but to re-endure the pain and disrespect their entire community felt all those years ago. History needs to be remembered, but not in a way that causes unnecessary suffering. I respectfully suggest that the statue should find a home in a place where people can CHOOSE whether or not to see it- and it MUST be accompanied by information panels which tell the entire story of MacDonald’s fame (and infamy). We cannot rewrite history and erase the thousands of deaths, the destruction of families, the mistreatment of our first peoples that are all part of his legacy - but we can be better than him. We can be respectful of those he hurt by recognizing that they continue to hurt. And we should hurt for them, because we are one community. And because if we do not stand against hatred, racism and abuse, we are not better. We all need to understand and learn from our history, no matter how dark. But we can do it in a respectful way and in the right places- as an historical exhibit INSIDE (Shire Hall? Macaulay Museum?) with the full context of the exhibit included. Give people the choice to see it or not. As Canadians, we can’t erase our mistakes. But we don’t have to make more. Thanks for listening. Kathy Barnett 890 County Road 35 ______

From: Richard Hughes Sent: October 1, 2020 8:58 AM To: Chad Curtis Subject: Fwd: Macdonald statement

Mr. Chad Curtis

Deputy Clerk

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Re. Heritage Advisory Committee Consideration of Future of Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

Please accept the following input to this committee on behalf of the Hastings County Historical Society

Submitted by Richard Hughes, President

On 26 June 2020, the Intelligencer reported that the statue of Sir John A. Macdonald (entitled "Holding Court") located in downtown Picton, presented to Prince Edward County Council in 2015, was being reviewed as a result of the larger debate regarding historical monuments across Canada, the United States, and Europe.

Ken Dewar, chair of the Prince Edward County Heritage Advisory Committee, is quoted as saying: "Statutes are powerful symbols that can evoke a range of emotions for different people. Determining the future of the statue in our community will not be an easy conversation, especially given the complex legacy of Canada’s first prime minister. However, I believe we can have a constructive deliberation that respects all viewpoints."

But the question remains, is Sir John A Macdonald’s statue important?

Are we comfortable breaking faith with the legacy of a man without whom this country would not exist? This is the question we must ask when discussing the memorialization of Sir John A Macdonald or any historical figure.

For those who incorrectly frame this debate as a defence of ‘our history’, they too must be challenged. Monuments are not history. While they are a sort of artifact and thus historical, history is how we reconstruct the past into stories, or narratives.

This controversy is caused by two interrelated problems. The first is the general historical illiteracy on the part of most Canadians. According to a poll done by the Association for Canadian Studies, only 37% of respondents take pride in Confederation in 1867. Another poll by Historica Canada, saw 67% fail a Canadian history test.

This ignorance is coupled with a disinclination to engage with our past, either because of a disinterest in history more generally or the cliched notion that Canadian history is dull and boring. This is compounded by an academic establishment that has become “a sort of activist organization” concerned only with eliciting an emotional response for whatever cause they have undertaken to espouse.

It is a profession that omits, distorts, deconstructs, and is inaccessible to the lay reader. This is the second problem: the acceptance of ahistorical methodologies. When proponents of tearing down statues and renaming public spaces speak it is imbued with a toxic moral puritanism whereby all aspects of memorialization, including the erasure of context, must adhere to standards no reasonable person would expect for people who lived in a society alien to our own.

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The Hastings County Historical Society has, accordingly, decided to present its own recommendations on the future of this monument to Canada's first prime minister. The Board of the HCHS recommends that:

1) the statue remain at its current location, and;

2) that it remain unencumbered by extraneous information or didactics that are not germane to the historical connotations of the monument (ie not relating directly to Macdonald's early legal career or residency in Prince Edward County)

It is also the opinion of this Board that this debate surrounding Macdonald represents a fundamental misinterpretation, a distortion of Canadian history. For the sake of expediency, Macdonald—his life and legacy—have become synonymous with all of the policies undertaken by the government of Canada, regardless of political affiliation or which government was in power, and the ensuing mistreatment and persecution of First Nations and Metis peoples across Canada.

The HCHS remains committed to fulfilling the goal of truth and reconciliation with Canada’s First Nations, Metis, and Inuit peoples. This is especially important for us to partner with Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte/Kenhtè:ke Kanyen'kehà:ka to ensure that First Nations feel included in our local cultural mosaic and have a voice in the discourse relating to our shared past.

We reaffirm our support for Sir John A. Macdonald’s statue and the integral role he played in the formation of Canada.

We urge you to continue to support Sir John A Macdonald’s legacy to commemorate the man without whom there is no us.

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From: Joseph LaFerla Sent: October 1, 2020 9:40 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Friends of Macdonald statue

We am writing to express my opinion on the fate of the Macdonald statue. As proud Canadians, we enjoy and treasure the Canada that we have today. This is due in large part to the excellent government of Sir John A. Macdonald, our first prime minister. Despite his failings, he has made an enormous contribution to the formation of a united Canada, the country we still enjoy today and a Canada that is respected worldwide as one of the best countries to live in. As well, we believe that one must view his actions in the context of the time in which he lived. As Canadians, our hearts would bleed if this statue would vanish. This man has a place in history and should be remembered in history books and museums and with statues in local parks. Removing the statue amounts to erasing and changing history. Macdonald deserves his place in Canadian history and to be thanked for what he did. Anybody

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that is so keen to have the statue removed should look deep inside themselves to see if they have always lived up to everyone’s expectations.

To make this right for all, adding a plaque explaining pertinent contexts would be a useful addition.

Long live Sir John A. in our memory!!

Joseph and Gertrud LaFerla

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From: Brad Beale Sent: October 1, 2020 10:34 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Input regarding Sir John A Macdonald Statue

To whom it may concern: I have never quite written a letter like this one, but feel compelled to do so regarding the statue of Sir John A. Macdonald, and the question of whether or not it should be removed. I believe it should NOT be removed. I am not a huge fan of that man whatsoever, I must admit, but I am very concerned about a particular, and troubling, philosophy that seems to be gaining traction in our society. It seems to have something to do with an idea of a ‘perfect’ person. None of our fore bearers were perfect, just as none of us is either. Sometimes we get things right, sometimes we get things wrong. This is true of every single one of us. Yet in spite of that, every single one of us also do some really great things, or some really great things happen because of something or other we’ve either done or said. For all the things Sir John got wrong, there are also some great things that have happened because of things he got right. Canada, as an independent country, happened, for example. I think that is pretty great. Every time I see a statue of Sir John, I think of his whole character and person, not just one part of him or another. Every time I see a statue of Sir John, I will think to myself, “you know, if somehow even through a guy like him, great things can happen, then you just never know what can happen through you”. I believe that is an important idea that many people in our culture right now need to hear. I often wonder if those protesting and raising their loud voices to remove these monuments and statues, are doing anything at all themselves to either rectify or alleviate any of the difficult issues in our society today. How many of those who protest so loudly are doing anything at all to constructively add to the richness of the fabric of our communities. Is going to a protest to sling projectiles and yell obscenities the extent and limit of the volunteerism? I also believe his statue in particular, or some others in general, should not be removed because they are works of art in and of themselves. I very much like that our local communities seem to be taking a more intentional approach to the beautification of our downtown spaces, and communities in general. I like public works or art generally, but if there are some that I may not personally appreciate, I just don’t pay attention to them. A statue might neither celebrate, nor defame an historical event or character, but simply serve as a witness to the significance of either a person or event. When, for example, we attend a Cenotaph event on November 11, none of us present is celebrating or rejoicing over the wars and atrocities committed, surely. We are simply marking the significance of the event, and mourning the deaths and destruction, with gratitude for those who sacrificed so much. There was recently a news article I read which indicated a worrying number (2/3rds) of the so-called ‘Millenial Generation’ in the United States (Zausmer, Julie, “Holocaust Study; Two thirds of millennials don’t know what Auschwitz Is“, The Washington Post, April 12, 2018). How has this sad state come to be? Awareness of such attrocities and horrors must be told, and re-told. Just as stories of suffering caused by Residential Schools must be told, and re-told, as well as the stories about how they came to be. There is no difference between the ideology, (demonizing the “other”) which eventually led to events such as Auschwitz (which still stands, as a memorial to us all), and the removal of statues like Sir John A. Have we still not learned how dangerous this demonization of the “other” is? Such actions are spurred on by the idea of re-writing our history, erasing history, and the part played in it by various historical figures or groups, and creating a fictional narrative more in line with contemporaneous popular taste; a ‘story’ many might find more palatable and agreeable with their own views. Such revisionist history is a slippery slope. To be abundantly clear, I am comparing the ideologies, not the people themselves,

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who are involved; the worrisome threat is the ideology. When the terrorist group called ISIS was ravaging its way through Northern Syria, and destroying ancient monuments and statues to create an environment more agreeable to their view of the world, people around the world rightly, in my view, condemned such vandalism as barbaric. If we remove statues and monuments from our community - even those that bring with them a degree of discomfort for some, how will the fullness of the Canadian story become known? How is this different from the behaviour of those we so recently saw as rather barbaric, but who were acting from a belief in the righteousness of their cause? Is it not better, with statues and monuments in Canada, to perhaps accompany them with some sort of explanatory plaque telling both the great things accomplished because of this persons work, as well as the things they got wrong? My last concern is about the prevailing blind acceptance of looking at historical figures and events only through the lens of current values and ideas. It seems to me that this is an exceedingly arrogant stance. As I’m sure you know, ever since the German philosopher Hegel, there have been debates about whether or not he really believed that the progress made around the world in governance and many other elements of contemporaneous society was evidence he actually though history was therefore ended. We have advanced so far, there can be no more history. He died in 1830. Here we are nearly two hundred years later seemingly taking the same stance that in 2020 we finally have it all figured out, we finally have it right, we finally can correct all the ‘errors’ of past generations. Maybe many of us believed that about ourselves when we were younger too. It is, however, arrogant. To remove public works of art, statuary, monuments that remind us of our past, because we either now finally have it ‘right’, or we now finally will without error correct the mistakes of former generations, seems to me to exhibit a tremendous arrogance. Sir John A. Macdonald was a man set in a particular historical context. He did some great things, and some terrible things. Like all of us. If any statuary of him is to be removed, if because of his mistakes and errors he is to be ‘removed’, erased from public memory, there is no argument left to prevent the removal of any of the rest of us also. Thank you for your inclusion of public views and input on this matter. Brad Beale Quinte West

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From: Lynza Sent: October 1, 2020 1:16 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A. MacDonald Holding Court

I do not want the statue removed from it's place. It is part of Picton's history and the history of Canada. We cannot go back in time and apply today's values to history. They may have represented cruel ways, but what is accepted now, was not then. Sir John A. MacDonald did many valuable things for Canada. If there is no other alternative, then I hope it can be placed somewhere in Picton.

We should not try to erase or whitewash the past with values of the present. (The present will be judged by history as well) Hopefully we can learn from the past.

Those who do not know their history are doomed to repeat it, lets learn and grow from it. Sincerely, Lynda Zadan

*Lynda also called staff to reiterate her message - Staff.

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From: Janet Collier Sent: October 1, 2020 1:33 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Macdonald Statue Picton

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I am a resident of PEC and am opposed to removing or relocating the Macdonald statue. Macdonald was Canada's first prime minister and, who are we as Canadians without our history? While we may not agree that his lifestyle are within the current values of today's society, we must remember he had the values of society in his day. History is not changeable and we should remember Sir John A. Macdonald as the leader that shaped our great country.

Jan Collier

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From: BARB WOOD Sent: October 1, 2020 1:35 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A statue

Good afternoon,

I wanted to weigh in on the decision re the SJAM statue either remaining or being removed from Main St. in Picton.

In my opinion, there is no need to further glorify a man who already has his name on our currency and countless public buildings and roads. MacDonald, while he may have been a product of his time, certainly doesn't need to be further enshrined once one understands his record of racism, the brutality of the Residential Schools, and the fact that he allowed the Indian Agent system to basically starve hundreds and hundreds of indigenous people to within an inch of their lives.

There is an argument that the statue should remain so that "we can learn from it." I don't know what can be learned when we have for decades only be taught one side of the story. There isn't a large enough plaque to catch us up on a couple of centuries of Indigenous oppression.

There is also an argument, which seeks to preempt my previous point, that "well, we could put another plaque up explaining what else he did." Frankly, I don't think anyone gave a toss about the statue until we started to talk about removing it.

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Removing the statue would teach far more of us white people what MacDonald represents to our First Nations people. At the VERY least, it is a gesture of understanding and reconciliation for the suffering which has for too long been ignored.

Thank you,

Barbara Wood

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From: Mel Larkin Sent: October 1, 2020 3:05 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: John A - Have Your Say

I am the co-founder of Darkspark, a local not-for-profit that inspires youth to create social change using tools of pop culture. From 2016-2019, we ran The Four Directions Project - a national, cross-cultural reconciliation project that collaborated with Indigenous and non-Indigenous youth, Elders, educators and artists to reflect on Canada’s colonial history using song, digital storytelling and documentary film. This project took us to every province and territory in Canada, and through it we were humbled, horrified and honoured to bear witness to stories of how colonialism has impacted identify, family and community for Indigenous people on this stolen, now shared, land.

A resounding name that was discussed in each location we visited was John A. MacDonald. The general consensus was not a positive one. It is impossible to divide the man from his actions, and a statue that glorifies him in the heart of our small downtown, just across the bridge from our Tyendinaga neighbours is disrespectful and frankly out-of-touch. Statues of leaders who not only condoned, but committed violent acts of white supremacy and genocide, do have a place in society. They belong in museums where viewers are required to learn more about them in the context of their actions and history, the adjoining plaque or information should be written in consultation and collaboration with Indigenous Scholars or historians. Alternately, make the art piece more inclusive. Move it to a larger space. Hire an Indigenous sculptor to craft a companion piece to contextualize John A’s actions.

A statue that edifies these human relics without context does disservice to history, and to the people who continue to live in the shadow of the trauma and pain caused by their hands. There are many options. Do better.

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______Mel Larkin | DARKSPARK

Co-Founder / Director of Programming

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From: Jim Gronau Sent: October 1, 2020 4:00 PM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: John A. Macdonald statue

Dear Emily Cowan,

I would like to share my thoughts on why the statue of John A. Macdonald should be removed. I'm attaching a pdf of the latest issue of the Chantecler, the newspaper Rosalind Adams and I create, which explains my position with regard to the statue.

Thank you for your attention,

Jim Gronau

* Pdf included in package - "Chantecler, Issue8, September 2020" - Staff

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From: Sarah Crawford Sent: October 2, 2020 7:10 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Letter to ‘Holding Court’ Working Group

To:

Ken Dewar,

Chairperson,

‘Holding Court’ Working Group

Dear Mr. Dewar,

The review of the place of the Ruth Abernathy-created statue of Sir John A. Macdonald in our community is a excellent opportunity to ask ourselves what we stand for as a community, how we plan

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to act on the Truth and Reconciliation Report’s Principles and Calls to Action, and to move forward in an honourable way. I hope that the recommendations made by this Working Group and the Heritage Committee—and the final decision made by Council—represent a positive action by our Municipality toward reconciliation.

I am not an Indigenous person, but as a resident of PEC I feel shame that this prominently displayed monument celebrates a former Canadian political leader who played a significant role in perpetrating ‘cultural genocide’—in the words of the United Nations—in what would become Canada.

We should not hide the shameful part of the history of Canada—but we should not honour it. Statues are conceived, created and sited with the intention to honour the person depicted; they are not created as educational tools.

To be clear, I do not support ‘erasing the existence of Macdonald’. Rather, I do support telling the full truth about his role, and also acknowledging part of history that one could argue has already been erased: the full history of this place that includes the history and contributions by Indigenous people who lived here before European colonization.

Yes, MacDonald lived and governed in different times.

Today, we understand the injustices and atrocities that were committed in those ‘different times’ and would not accept them by our more enlightened standards.

‘Holding Court’ is not an ancient monument with a legacy is our community. It has not been standing for a century, but was given to the community in 2015, the same year as Canada’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission made public its findings and recommendations to move forward in reconciliation.

The Third Principle of Reconciliation in the TRC report states:

“Reconciliation is a process of healing of relationships that requires public truth sharing, apology, and commemoration that acknowledge and redress past harms.”

The TRC report reminds us that “shaming and pointing out wrongdoing” was not their mandate. They wanted to find a way forward, all of us together.

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I believe that removing the statue from its prominent place of honour on Main Street and relocating it to a more appropriate site—accompanied by full educational contextual information—would be a positive and healing act by our community in the spirit of this principle.

An additional action we can take is to create a public art policy for the municipality so that public art created in the future reflects and includes the diversity of our community and recognizes and honour Indigenous people, culture and stories, past and present.

These are just two steps we can take to balance representation and inclusion in our public art and to make visible parts of the history of this place which have been erased. And, of course, there are many more things we can do as a community and municipality but I won’t comment on those actions here as it would fall outside the scope of this Working Group and the rules provided for deputations made to you.

Working Group members, PEHAC members and our elected Councillors must consider what we stand for as a community, and to move forward in a positive, healing and honourable way.

In making judgements and decisions about ‘Holding Court’ it is essential that the deciders include Indigenous members of our community so that we find a positive way forward that honours all of us, and does not erase some of us.

Respectfully,

Sarah Crawford

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From: stacey croucher Sent: October 2, 2020 9:42 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Have Your Say

Hi Emily, I hope this email finds you well. I contacted Mark Kerr today explaining my technical difficulties on not being able to send my submission regarding the Sir John A. MacDonald statue on time.He sent me an email stating that I can send you my response no later than 12pm today, so here it is!

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Thank you so much for allowing me to get this in. It means a lot to me.

When any statue is erected, we are celebrating what it stands for. Let's reflect what this statue of Sir John A. Macdonald stands for:

- He created Canada's system of Indian Residential Schools, separating Indigenous children from their families to strip them from their culture, language and acquire the habits of "civilized white men." - He was personally responsible for Indigenous cultural genocide. The Indian Act was amended, and a starvation policy was implemented which resulted in many deaths of the Indigenous people - While he was in power, the Métis were attacked TWICE and many First Nations and Métis leaders were jailed, which led to a number of them dying in jail or shortly after they were released. - While he was in power, the LARGEST mass execution in Canadian history occurred with the hanging of EIGHT cree and Assiniboine men in North Battleford, Saskatchewan. - He capitalized on the wreckage of Indigenous peoples land to build railroads and colonized communities

This list does not end here, but is this what we want our community to showcase and celebrate? It is a complete mockery and offensive to our Ingenious friends who's land this statue is displayed upon. History will never be erased with the fall of this statue, it is completely ingrained in the blood of so many! why not consider it being replaced by a historical leader within the Indigenous community? Could we not have a plaque stating what once stood and why it was replaced by someone who stands for justice, peace and respect of all living beings? I think people need to stop worrying about history being removed and more on what kind of history we want to create now!

Stacey

Will this be posted online with the other comments or submitted internally to the board?

Thanks!

Stacey Croucher

R. Ac / BFA

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From: Suzanne O'Connor Sent: October 2, 2020 9:55 AM To: Emily Cowan <> Subject: Sir John A Macdonald statue

CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know the content is safe.

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Hi Emily,

Thanks very much for taking in residents’ opinions regarding our local Sir John A Macdonald statue.

I would like the ‘Holding Court’ statue to stay but only if there will be an accompanying statue to be created which would represent the Anishinaabe Indigenous peoples who worked and lived on this land for 100 years before the Loyalists arrived. I would imagine that one of the considerations would be a statue involving Indigenous children being robbed from their parents and homes.

I add the following, trusting that this is already in the works... I think it’s also a requirement that the decision of an additional statue be made in accordance with communication from Indigenous leaders in Tyindenaga.

The reason why I think this is necessary is because many nations the globe over now understand that human nature requires constant reminders of the horrific mistakes humanity makes regarding discriminative behavior in order to avoid repeating it.

Thanks very much for this opportunity to communicate about this very important matter that in itself is making history.

Suzanne O’Connor

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ATTACHMENT 1.

Working Group anonymous ranked votes - by member.

Remove Modify Replace Relocate Keep Member 1 4 1 5 3 2 Member 2 5 2 4 3 1 Member 3 1 3 2 4 5 Member 4 1 4 3 2 5 Member 5 1 4 3 2 5 Member 6 2 1 5 3 4 Member 7 1 4 2 3 5

(Please note that "1" indicates the option was most preferred, and "5" indicates that the option was least preferred).

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From: Sherry Pringle Sent: November 8, 2020 4:55 PM To: AAA - Clerks Office Subject: Sit John A Statue

Please fight to keep our history alive . Sherry Pringle

Sent from my iPhone

From: Barbra Stock Sent: November 8, 2020 5:01 PM To: AAA - Clerks Office Subject: Staue

It is VERY important to keep the statue of MacDonald on the main street in Picton With an explanation of the historical aspect

As a woman I must accept that I did not and do not always have my opinion recognized As a pacifist I must accept that there are many acknowledgements of war. Vandals who damage and deface must not be allowed to dictate what stays on the streets of the County In a democracy we must abide by the majority If the Council is dissatisfied with the polls already taken Then they can have one of their own

From: Sent: November 8, 2020 6:58 PM To: AAA - Clerks Office Subject: re MacDonald Statue

this statue should be left in place. this is part of our history, maybe not our best history, but HISTORY, so it needs to stay to remind us

Thank you, Jackie Dorland

From: Alan Gratias Sent: November 9, 2020 7:39 AM To: AAA - Council; AAA – Council; AAA - Clerks Office Subject: LEST WE FORGET - John A. Macdonald

TO ALL PEC COUNCILLORES LEST WE FORGET: re John A. Macdonald

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November 9, 2020

‘Lest we forget’ applies to ALL Canadian history as a nudge for Canadians to remember what it has taken to become what a recent UNESCO survey labels as the ‘the most liveable country in the world and a beacon of liberal democracy.’ John A Macdonald played a big part in defining who we are as non- Americans. Historians agree, as Richard Gwyn so emphatically points out, “no Macdonald, no Canada.” I do not think any of us fancy being annexed to the American Union.

We know Macdonald had weaknesses, and bad policies but they are part of his political legacy that needs to be taught and understood. Were we to probe the foibles of General Picton, Tommy Douglas, or Pierre Elliot Trudeau, we would find issues that might be anathema in the current cultural zeitgeist. Should we rename our County and shire capital?

Please Councillors, do not engage in historical dementia and cancel ‘a Quinte Boy through and through’. More context yes; more discussion yes; erasure no. I believe there is an overwhelming desire among PEC residents to acknowledge the contributions of John A.

“Holding Court’ by Ruth Abernathy, Canada’s finest sculptor, in front of the library is a recognition of how The County helped shape our first Prime Minister, nothing more, nothing less.

Alan Gratias

From: David Burn Sent: November 9, 2020 10:00 AM To: AAA - Clerks Office Subject: Sir John A, Macdonald.

With reference to your November 17 meeting I hope you will not be unduly influenced by the Committees' recommendations !

We, and I believe at least 80% of County residents are very happy with the Statue's present location. It is a wonderful sight outside our Library and a reminder that the architect of Canada as we know it was practising law in Picton prior to 1867.

I understand that the overall majority of the Committee members were biased and an overwhelming majority were going to vote to hide the statue even if the favourable facts of Macdonald’s leadership were allowed to be fairly presented to them!

Our history is valuable and we trust Council will respect the wishes of the majority of your constituents and preserve the statue, at its present wonderful location, but with appropriate and accurate signage.

IF you are under too much pressure from the vocal minority to support the above let County citizens decide.

Respectfully,

Carolyn and David Burn.

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From: Bill & Sandra Edwards Sent: November 8, 2020 9:00 PM To: AAA - Clerks Office Subject: Sir John A MacDonald Statue

I have sent a message to Council, through all 14 councillors, demonstrating my personal displeasure about the removal of the statue of Sir John A from in front of the Library. I trust that my communication will raised at the upcoming council mtng. Bill Edwards (former councillor in Picton & The County)

From: Keenan Sprague Sent: November 9, 2020 3:55 PM To: AAA - Council; AAA - Clerks Office Subject: Submissions - SJAM Statue

Dear Council Members and Clerks:

My name is Keenan Sprague and I live in Picton. I am writing to express my support for the continued display of the Ruth Abernethy bronze portrait of John A. Macdonald on Main Street.

We cannot allow the statue of John A. MacDonald, then a young resident lawyer of Picton/Hallowell years before he entered politics, to be characterized solely as a symbol of Canada's worst sins. It's more complicated than that. For all of his misguided policies, it remains true that SJAM was a leading figure in bringing about a united Canada.

Those who advocate for the removal of the statue have framed this debate as a binary, either/or proposition. They assert that we have a simple choice between supporting racial justice by removing the statue or denying racial justice by supporting the statue. In my respectful view, this is a false choice. We can and must recognize the crimes of the past while at the same time creating space for commemorating our rich local history.

It's true that the policies of colonial, and later Canadian, governments visited immeasurable pain and cruelty upon indigenous peoples. These crimes cannot be excused or forgotten and we must do better in teaching our children about these dark episodes. But it's also true that there is no evidence that John A. MacDonald was a major outlier among many of his contemporaries when came to his attitudes towards indigenous peoples. It's both deplorable and true that, during the 19th and 20th centuries, white peoples by and large regarded indigenous peoples as subhuman. Indeed, parliamentary debates show that John A. MacDonald was actually attacked by his political opponents for not being cruel enough to indigenous peoples (can you imagine?). Remember, when these debates were held, there was no concept of "racism" at all. Again, by observing this, I am in no way excusing or apologizing for these shameful attitudes - I merely wish to provide some context of the society in which JAM lived.

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source: Google

The best remedy to address the legitimate concerns of racial injustice, in my humble view, is not to erase our local history, but to educate and inform. The fact that we are having this dialogue at all goes to show the progress we have made and continue to make towards a more equitable community. Sincerely,

Keenan Sprague

From: Colleen Johnson Sent: November 10, 2020 12:39 PM To: Mayor Steven Ferguson; Karen Frigault; Kate MacNaughton; Phil St-Jean; Brad Nieman; Phil Prinzen; Mike Harper; Andreas Bolik; Janice Maynard; Bill McMahon; Jamie Forrester; Bill Roberts; Ernest Margetson; Stewart Bailey; John Hirsch; AAA - Clerks Office Subject: Sir John A MacDonald Statue

Dear Mayor Fergusson and Councillors of Prince Edward County,

I feel compelled to write to you in regards to the decision that is facing our community, the statue of Sir John A MacDonald.

I was very disappointed that my earlier email (dated and sent Oct.1 2020) to Emily Cowan was not acknowledged by her nor the committee that she represents nor was it posted or included in public comments made to the Holding Court Working Group. I forwarded in this email I had sent the link to the posting I had made, and the response I received to a Facebook post on July1st of this year. The Facebook story on the vandalism of the statue on Canada day - posted that same day - promoted international interest.

The following is the content of the post I wrote and the official Facebook link if you wish to verify the actual post:

"Some interesting facts about Sir John A.... At age 7 saw his 5 year old brother beaten to death by a crazed baby sitter. His first wife was an invalid whom he stood by until her death. His first born son died at 18 months of age. His daughter was born a hydrocephallic and never approached normalcy but cared for at home. Supported his invalid mother in his home until her death. In 1885 attempted to pass a bill to give aboriginals a right to vote 70 years before it became law in 1960. He wrote a letter to Ojibway

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chief Peter Jones "a footing of equality with white brethern" In the 1880's he became "the first national leader in the world to attempt to grant women the vote" I don't think I need to go on. As with us all we are good and we are bad. I am ashamed to be a County person and a Canadian today on the birthday of this great country who he brought together in 1867. Oh Canada our home and native land, I mourn for thee. " https://www.facebook.com/527378489/posts/10158343976483490/?extid=0&d=n

This post received 3,367 likes, over 2.200 comments and 10,292 shares.

These are not insignificant numbers.This is a significant poll of opinion when the Working Group’s public comments were limited to a few hundred. Yes, in the comments there were several negative remarks but if you go through them you will read what the world, yes I mean "world" had to say about this senseless vandelism in our county. There were comments made from across the US, Europe and South Africa and the post promoted national interest, having heard from every province in Canada

This statue is not so much a commemoration of our first Prime Minister but a statue commemorating his start of a law career which put him on the path to become our first Prime Minister. I am sure when he tried his first case at the Picton Court House, this 19 year old had no idea of what he would become. He was a young man starting out in life. What I find most interesting is that this statue faces the spot at the corner of Main and Ross St. where the altercation had taken place.

We need to acknowledge our heritage be it good or bad. To show our children that the bad cannot be hidden in dusty books but out for all to see. To allow our children to discuss and explore the lives of our forefathers and to not repeat their mistakes made at a different time and world far removed from our own, and strive to make this a better world.

Please consider keeping this statue where it is in front of our library so it is a learning resource of the complicated history we share, for the beautiful work of art it is, but most important, to remind us not to repeat the past.

Thank you for listening Colleen Johnson

The public correspondence is being presented for transparency purposes and do not reflect the views of the municipality.

From: Patrice Rogue November 10, 2020 2:36 AM woke: HISTORICAL RECORD TORTURING 14 YEAR OLD GIRL? HOW BEAUTIFUL FOR THE COUNTY TO ACKNOWLEDGE SUCH A HERO https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-8931683/St-Pauls-Cathedral-monument-Waterloo-hero- known-Tyrant-Trinidad-axed.html http://www.pec.on.ca/pehac/historic_notes.html

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William Macaulay had it laid out as a village in 1815, naming it Picton after General Sir Thomas Picton who had been killed that year in the Battle of Waterloo

From: Sarah Crawford Sent: November 11, 2020 10:22 AM To: Emily Cowan; Marcia Wallace; John Hirsch Subject: Fwd: Our letter to Council re: Holding Court

Good morning. Please see our letter that we have emailed to our Councillor this morning. Sarah Sent from Sarah

Begin forwarded message: From: Sarah Crawford ——

Dear Mr Mayor and Councillors,

As residents of PEC we have been following closely the discussions and public process regarding the Holding Court statue. We have listened to almost all the Holding Court Working Group (WG) meetings via Zoom. We also listened to some of the Heritage Committee meetings in which the terms of reference and membership of the Working Group were discussed and agreed upon. We have heard the deputations; we have read the submissions on the Have Your Say portal; we have read the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) reports; we have done our own research to inform ourselves on this issue and related cases. One of us submitted her own letter to the Working Group.

We believe Council must respect and honour the recommendation of the Working Group which was arrived at after an open process. The members of the WG were appointed by you to represent interests and perspectives of the community. They have heard/read all the public comment, read the research, invited experts to provide insight and testimony. Their recommendation must prevail.

This is not an issue for a referendum or public vote; only the ‘jury’ members who have seen and heard all the relevant testimony should be entrusted and authorized to make an informed decision, which they have done. Council has not heard and read all the relevant material—and reading summaries of such is not sufficient. Council should respect the process and framework it set up and let the decision stand.

It’s become clear to most people in Canada following the TRC reports of 2015 that we as individuals, institutions and organizations must take action toward reconciliation with Indigenous people—many of whom are residents of PEC.

How can we, as a Municipality, not take this opportunity to move forward with an act of kindness and sensitivity? Especially if it is acting on a recommendation resulting from your own public process?

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A statue of a person who once lived is not intended to be an educational tool. Rather, it is intended to honour and celebrate. What does it say about our community if this statue, accepted as a gift in the very year of the TRC report, remains on public land on Main Street?

We do not favour erasing history, or erasing the fact of the existence of Sir JAM. There are many ways in which we as a community can educate ourselves and our children about the full and truthful history of the man and his times. A statue on Main Street does not serve this objective.

We call on you, as individuals and our Council, representing our Municipality, to do the right and honourable thing: accept the Holding Court Working Group’s recommendation to remove the statue.

Respectfully,

Sarah Crawford and David Kirkwood

Sent from Sarah

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Fri 2020-10-02 4:28 PM From: Janice Gibbons To: Emily Cowan Subject: Macdonald statue art installation

History cannot be rewritten, nor should it be censored. Discussing the uncomfortable events of a nation’s history is important in a conversation about legacy. How John A Macdonald and George’s Etienne Cartier carried out some of their accomplishments would not be accepted today. That does not mean that the accomplishments themselves are to be disregarded. A library is a source of information, available to everyone, a place to understand Canada’s entire history, from the Iroquoian culture in this area over 2000 years through settlement to today. There is so much to learn, together. A one-sided argument is the opposite of free speech. There is a middle ground called common sense. “I cannot change yesterday. I can only make the most of today, and look forward with hope toward tomorrow.” Janice Gibbins

Sent from my iPad

Fri 2020-10-02 4:24 PM From: Bob and Helen Williams To: Emily Cowan Subject: statue

I vote to keep the Sir John A. statue where it is. Most days if I walk Main Street ever since it was erected, someone or a family is admiring it. Some sit in the chair while family take photos to remember the County and Picton. It’s a magnificent piece of art. Sir John wasn’t perfect but he didn’t work alone. With the mess that the USA is in just now, would we rather be a tiny piece of that country than be Canada, a wonderful country , admired by the world? He had a part in making us one with a railroad still crossing most of our country. That’s another thing. Every Canadian should travel that route at least once. It’s unforgettable. Thanks Sir John, a person that was as imperfect as the rest of us.

Helen Williams

Bloomfield .

Fri 2020-10-02 3:38 PM From: Barbra Stock To: Emily Cowan Subject: Statue

May I add my views to the many being shared

I am English and have lived on the County since1985. I am not allowed to vote at any level of government

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I understand that the statue shows MacDonald as a young lawyer In the town where he started his lawyers career

Although he was later to become the first Prime Minister.

I understood that at time of becoming the first Prime Minister of Canada 1867 he couldn't make a unilateral decision.

I was very pleased to see the statue. It is an artistic rendering of a lawyer who was a member of this community. What his associates or members of Parliament did in later years is not what I understand the statue to represent

I like where it now stands. You cannot rewrite history.

Fri 2020-10-02 4:53 PM From: Sam Lanfranco To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A McDonald Statue Issue

Busy with pressing work on the farm I though that the online form submission deadline was at the end of business today. I was wrong. For what it is worth, here are my views, for consideration or for the circular file near the desk.

Public debate over the midtown statue of Sir John A. McDonald is both necessary and important.

We are amid a time where we realize that the traditional histories we were taught left out a lot of important details. Those details should cause us to both have a deeper understanding of our shared history and give more thought to how those views impact on the realities of today. Unlike much of the commemorative statue debate in the U.S. where statues are of those wishing to tear apart a nation, the McDonald statue is of a complicated figure, in a complicated time, who went on to become Canada’s first Prime Minister, though still under British rule. Not only does he have a blemished record for not standing up against residential school, and for other racist policies, we (Canada) today still suffer from some of those injustices and their legacies. What is to be done?

Simply removing the statue, or banishing it off to some less prominent space, is a weak solution in the face of a learning moment as Canada tries to ingest his history and the stories and evidence from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, and to design a decent path forward. There is ample space on the exterior walls of the mail library to both list his positive achievements as Canada’s first Prime Minister, and to address the complicate and unjust policies enacted during his time as Prime Minister. In addition,

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we have the digital spaces of the global Internet to expand on themes and issues to our heart’s content, hopefully in constructive ways that inform and enlighten participants and viewers.

It will take decades to heal and get past the consequences of the residential schools, and the 60s Scoop. It is a short sided (possibly lazy) move just to erase McDonald’s presence in the County, and a lost opportunity if we fail to turn this into a learning moment that will live as long as the statue is standing.

Sam Lanfranco, South Bay

Fri 2020-10-02 4:58 PM From: Sam Lanfranco To: Emily Cowan Subject: Public debate over the midtown statue of Sir John A. McDonald is both necessary and important.

You may get this twice. I sent it via outlook but I am only now setting up that app since one of my important accounts is changing mail server access via Outlook.

Public debate over the midtown statue of Sir John A. McDonald is both necessary and important.

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we have the digital spaces of the global Internet to expand on themes and issues to our heart’s content, hopefully in constructive ways that inform and enlighten participants and viewers.

Sam Lanfranco, South Bay

Fri 2020-10-02 5:29 PM From: Steve Staniek To: Emily Cowan Subject: HoldingCourtSubmission

To: Members of the working group on the Macdonald “Holding Court” relocation project,

I come before you as an unpaid, community activist whose main interests are human rights and public safety. Over the last 10 years, my County projects have included opposing the unwanted Heritage District on Picton’s Main Street on behalf of angry property owners, and working towards pedestrian and cycling protection on the Skyway Bridge, on behalf of County families. My words are uncommonly frank, and intended to be without malice.

1. What’s a heritage extremist?

I worked in heritage preservation on the Burlington LACAC for years, and gave walking tours, etc.. I know from experience that the big difference between respectful heritage fans and heritage extremists is ethical behaviour. True heritage fans are benign, and content with preserving their own historic assets, while heritage extremists impose their covetous desires to control anything historic on others without consent, permission, gratitude, or compensation. They take with hostile greed, and mistreat their victim neighbours with indifference, just like their colonial predecessors.

The County’s “ Vital Signs” report informs us that the demographics, and therefore the politics in the County have changed since colonial days. It’s not surprising that in this 21 century, most of us no longer support British Christian colonialism that is still being honoured and practiced here today.

The Truth and Reconciliation Report has made a complete fiction of the official British Christian narratives of lies and deceptions promulgated by British and French Christian Supremacists, to establish and maintain political power in Canada, at the highest cost of committing crimes against humanity.

2. A Tiny Minority Still Supports Macdonald Heritage.

We can estimate the level of local public support for Macdonald’s caricature on Main which represents colonial heritage, by looking at the Heritage District Study of 2012. For about a year, it passively attracted most of the hard core heritage supporters who numbered about 250 responders, or 1% of 25,000 people in this County. When Mr. Warrick went out and actively collected signatures, he was able

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to raise the number of heritage extremists to around 675. If we combine both numbers optimistically, we get a tiny minority of 3.7% of the County residents.

Post-colonial terrorism in the form of religious persecution of hundreds of thousands of children taken by force of law or violence, from their homes and communities, over many generations, and forced to convert to the enemy’s religion or endure daily hardships and torment, rises to the level of crimes against humanity.

You only see the parts of Macdonald that you like. In order to show the other side of John A. Macdonald, that indigenous Canada sees, we have to expose the long hidden shadow side of Canada.

Macdonald produced a century and half of Christian pogroms that took and terrorized native children physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Heartless supremacists destroyed native families and communities, relocated villages to unsuitable lands, deposed their governments, abused their children, and committed crimes against humanity that were hidden by the Canadian press until the TRR exposed their lack of ethical journalism. There is ample evidence of the generational traumas produced in native communities by religious terrorism, and malicious interference in native spiritual beliefs and cultures.

Unfortunately, Macdonald’s legacy is now recognized as epidemic levels of child suicides in native communities. Native children on troubled reserves have confirmed in front of CBC cameras that most of their problems arise from the damaged parents who were shaped in the Christian run Residential schools.

Today, it is deeply disturbing to ethical Canadians living in Prince Edward County, that Mayor Ferguson and Integrity Commissioner Swayze, continue to believe in undemocratic, colonial style governance.

By establishing and supporting a committee of heritage extremists that represents a shamefully tiny percentage of the population, and who were largely responsible for creating and imposing the caricature problem, Mayor Ferguson is imposing very inappropriate old style colonial values, loyalties, and governance on a population that has moved on, and rejects the horrible aspects of British Christian colonialism.

In the minds of those who have read the horrors documented in the TRR, the appearance of John A. as a jaunty and carefree caricature in his courtroom grab, is immediately associated with the corresponding image of a long suffering native child, that was mistreated by his racially hostile government and religion that: isolated, humiliated, beat, starved, overworked, exposed, abandoned, and treated them like subhuman “savages”, in accordance with the wishes of the supremacist parliament led by Macdonald in Canada’s parliament.

Good and caring Canadians who live here now, and have taken the time to know the truth about Canada’s shadow as revealed in the TRR, find this highly controversial and hated caricature that appeared without public discussion, or consent, deeply offensive.

There has been a scarcity of public consultation in PEC, in much the same way that the unwanted Heritage District was imposed with colonial indifference on the property owners on Main Street.

3. Suspicious Timing of the Statue

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The priority of colonial style governments is to protect their power structure first, and address the needs of the community last. This old style, undemocratic way of governance has persisted in Picton [PEC] since Loyalists landed here. The proof is the appearance of the Macdonald Statue before the County provided public washrooms in the business district.

The timing of the statue just ahead of the expected TRR, is a slap in the face to indigenous Canada. It was a desperate attempt to deny the meaningfulness of the reconciliation process that was unfolding, and it attempted to shore up the County with the colonial values that are still honoured here by a handful of heritage extremists.

While the Macdonald caricature represents the success of British Christian colonials to take and hold indigenous land wealth with violence and threats of violence, the victims of that British success are hundreds of sovereign indigenous nations that fell before Constantine’s Christian Cross of Conquest. Of the 150,000 that were terrorized with forced Christian conversion, in remote Christian hell holes, about 6,000 of those brave native children were killed when they stood up to their British and French terrorists. These courageous children who did not raise a hand to harm another, or impose their beliefs on another, are Canada’s true heroes, our highest heroes. They should be rightly honoured on Picton’s Main Street to balance the visual horrors of colonialism that persist if the Macdonald statue remains on Main Street.

4. Suggestion for Fate of Statue

The most prudent solution for everyone, is to store the caricature away from public display, to protect both the statue and those victims of colonialism who could be revictimized by viewing it unexpectedly on Picton's Main Street. 1000 protestors voted on Main Street recently, and they outnumber the heritage extremists who still support colonialism.

Thank you for listening,

Fri 2020-10-02 6:09 PM From: John Perkins To: Emily Cowan Subject: Holding Court public input

Emily,

Based on this week's paper, it indicates submissions will be accepted up to today.

I trust this submission qualifies.

Appreciatively,

John Perkins

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I read this week’s County Weekly News article “Historian says MacDonald statue must go” and find myself somewhat incredulous at the extent to which we want to correct the errors of our Canadian past by searching for someone to affix blame to, and often approached these issues from a biased, unbalanced, unrealistic or limited point of view.

A country and its people need its leaders, its history and a sense of Canadian identity. There is no denying Sir John A. built this nation in a significant way over his various terms in office, just as there is no denying the residential school system was appalling, unconscionable and shameful. But to denigrate his memory and attribute the ills of the residential school system solely or primarily to Sir John A. MacDonald is in my opinion extreme and disproportionate.

Residential Schools were not solely the product of Sir John A’s politicking. Decisions made by government at the time of the founding of Canada were not the product of an executive order, but were the result of MPs in the House of Commons and Senators in the Senate voting to amend and to enact laws, and in the 1800s, maybe also involved the British House of Lords. They were not solely the decision of one man. And should the electorate disapprove of the government’s policies visa vis the aboriginal community, they too have a voice in removing MacDonald from power, and yet they re-elected him several times, in essence endorsing his policies. This was more a collective decision of the European majority.

Do we today fully understand the motives behind the MacDonald government instituting the residential schools program for aboriginal Canadians? Was assimilation, albeit wrong, seen as a plan of action to ensure survival of native populations in a new reality of cohabiting with a vastly different Eurocentric culture, economy, and political system? Was it perceived as a way to avoid conflicts between the traditional and European lifestyles which invariably would have left the native communities marginalized and economic hardship? Did the government of the day or the people fully realize the abuses that would ensue as the schools was entrusted the clergy and others. And was MacDonald considering of the tragic realities of the United States policies, of the Trail of Tears relocation of the 1830s and later and the massacres of various tribal communities falling under the movement of the Manifest Destiny.

If we remove MacDonald’s statue out of the shame of his association with residential schools policy, then we must rename every school, university, mountain, airport, highway and city named after virtually every Canadian Prime Minister of Canada who covered up the injustices, maintained and allowed the continuation of the residential school system until as late as 1996. They are guilty. Goodbye to Pearson, Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Joe Clarke, John Diefenbaker and the others.

Why start with 1867? Consider that two-thirds of slaves employed and kept in New France and the Canadas in the 1600s and 1700s were First Nations people, and this practice was endorsed and upheld by the likes of British North America Governor Guy Carleton. You must rename Ottawa’s university. Consider the forced relocation of Inuit to the high north in the 1950s that devastated and separated families; let us exclude recognition of PM Louis St. Laurent.

Should we limit this march to purge only to those adversely affecting First Nations, or look to include those leaders implicated in the injustices befalling Canadians of Jewish, African,

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Japanese, Chinese or Sikh communities throughout our history. The Chinese Head Tax on the 1920s; tear down PM Bennet and Meighan. Japanese internment of WW2; remove all honours paid to William Lyon Mackenzie King. And the list goes on.

Decisions of the day often reflect the prevailing beliefs of the majority, the dominant culture. MacDonald’s policies were a product of the time and not unique to him. They were not always honourable or morally correct nor able to stand the test of time, but they were not the product of one man. We can find fault in most leaders, including those of the First Nations who enslaved or massacred others or brutally tortured their captives. Should we reconsider those statues. Maybe we need to balance the bad with the good to see which weights the most on the man’s character. Vice is often measured in the extremes.

Embracing counterculture is not the solution. We end up only recognizing those who might have lead and contributed to perfection, such as Mahatma Gandhi. We glean our history, extracting only those where there is consensus that they did everything right. And we do this with the benefit of hindsight, the influence of current and changed social norms. We forget that those in our history who erred in their ways and policies serve as a sobering reflection of what went wrong and are a lesson to learn from. We produce a history that is unrealistic, selective, pure and misleading.

Truth is we can find fault in many historical figures. And while we can argue not one of us is perfect in life, do our wrongs erase whatever good we did or contributed.

I would also disagree with Professor Sean Carelton, that we do not teach the unsavoury side of Canadian history in our schools including controversies related to MacDonald. As a teacher of Canadian History in two of our local high schools, I can assure you we do teach our students the origins of the residential school systems, its failings and those responsible.

John Perkins

Fri 2020-10-02 7:23 PM From: Roxanne Mackenzie To: Emily Cowan Subject: macdonald statue

I am sorry I missed the deadline but i am a county resident and i believe the statue should be left where it is. thank you

Roxanne

Fri 2020-10-02 9:36 PM From: Gloria Jowett

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To: Emily Cowan Subject: “Holding Court” Statue

To the Prince Edward County Council, the Heritage Committee, and Committee Members Studying the Sir John A. Macdonald Statue Issue:

As a student and later a teacher of Canadian and County history, I wish to share a few thoughts which I hope might be helpful.

As a young child, I loved to hear stories of past days in the County. This oral history motivated me to search for more information in written form. Eventually, I studied History at University. What I learned there I feel is pertinent to the present statue issue.

At university, we were assigned weekly historical topics and a number of readings. We soon learned that historians often had divergent opinions based on their personal perspective. We read, contemplated, and formed a theory. As convinced as we were of our own opinion, we realized that no one had a definitive answer. Although we might disagree with someone, we accepted the other’s right to think differently.

I am concerned that in the present situation some participants are allowing emotions to foment vandalism and vindictiveness. I think a rational approach using research, study, and discussion would be more beneficial. I hope that the “Holding Court” Working Group will find a way to exchange information as well as opinions in a positive and productive manner.

I believe that the “Holding Court” statue could be a great teaching tool. Sir John A Macdonald is a part of Picton, County, and Canadian history. The statue belongs on Library property to educate and stimulate intelligent thought.

Sat 2020-10-03 4:03 PM From: Edward Hildreth To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A. Macdonald Statue

In the ebb and flow of civilization's advancement, societies come and go. Stronger societies overwhelm weaker societies which has been the case since time in memorial. In the case of Canada, the French and British societies proved to be superior in their natural social and technological evolution than the indigenous societies which remained primarily in their original stone-age form and consequently came under Western European (i.e. British) control and influence in Canada in the course of global discovery.

The methods used to deal with these 'collateral societies' that were carried along with the greater social wave of mankind's advancement into the world (i.e., colonialism) have ranged from complete extermination to attempted assimilation. The United States is an example of attempted decimation in that 130,000 American indigenous people were slaughtered by the American army and their civil supporters in expanding the internal reach of America. This was not the case in Canada. Macdonald ... already burdened with creating the future Federation that is today's Canada ... was using the latest and most enlightened British method to assimilate the younger generation of indigenous people into

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Western culture, that being one based on the British boarding school system. It is unfortunate that those to whom Macdonald entrusted this task proved to be unworthy of that trust and abused and mistreated their indigenous wards. It is in this unknowing, misplaced trust that the greatest abuse of indigenous people occurred. The fault of subsequent administrators should not be laid on the founder of a country which is now the envy of the world.

By today's standards the removal of indigenous children to off-reserve schools seems harsh but in terms of the Victorian values of that time it was quite a modern and benevolent experiment ... as the entire concept of rights for women and children including anti-labour laws for people generally much less children weren't even contemplated in the 19th Century much less the psychology of separation, childhood trauma and cultural genocide. The education and assimilation of indigenous children into western society seemed the most practical, 'Christian', benevolent and forward looking method of dealing with the collateral societies with which Canada, after British conquest, found itself responsible. It was certainly a more benevolent method than the extermination of entire tribes as was taking place in the United States at that time and later.

You might also want to recall that while Macdonald was attempting to create schools for indigenous children, the concept of slavery in the United States was still very fresh in many American minds and was not completely abandoned by many millions of Americans at that time ... nor even later. To McDonald's credit he did not sell or farm out indigenous children as free labour or attempt to exploit them in any way ... unlike Canada's complete neglect of the 150 thousand British children brought over in the 19th century as 'wards of the state' who were exploited and abused. No mention has been made of that cruel oversight while the assimilation and education of indigenous children was occurring.

Anyone with an understanding of social history and Canadian history of the 19th century can certainly place Macdonald's treatment of its Indigenous people in context and see that McDonald's Indigenous policies were 'in advance' of his time. We should not hold him liable for the lack of official oversight (common during the 19th and early 20th century ... remembering that the telephone wasn't even introduced until the 1890's in urban centres) ... and the mistreatment of Canada's Indigenous 'wards' (mostly occurring by and under Church auspices) that followed his passing in 1891 only fifteen years after the enactment of the Indian Act which, for all of its alleged flaws, is still quite surprisingly in operation.

No 'national founder' in the history of the world is without flaws both personal and professional. If these were to be taken into account today there would be no monuments or honour given to any national leaders of the past or even of the present in some cases. When we raise a statue to a 'founder', we give him credit for his insight, perseverance and struggles at that time and for the nation that presently exists because of his efforts. And it is for this reason that the statue of Sir John A. Macdonald should remain exactly where it is.

W. Edward Hildreth (Picton, ON)

Tue 2020-10-20 1:18 PM From: Carlyn Moulton

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To: Emily Cowan Subject: have your say holding court

My apologies for making a late submission to the working group.

To the members of the committee,

You have been given a difficult task, and first let me thank you for volunteering to take it on. Clearly this discussion is not unique to our community, but it seems that each community needs to have its own dialogue.

I offer these comments as a person passionate about the importance of sculpture and the role it can play in our civic life. Done well, sculpture can animate our public spaces, offer moments of joy, colour and discovery, change our perspective and experience of scale.

In the interests of full disclosure, I have had a positive working relationship with Ruth Abernethy, the sculptor, and I admire her talent and skill as an artist.

Yet heritage is neither saved nor lost because of the presence of a statue. Literally, heritage means an inheritance, something allotted or given to us. I think it's quite possible that most of us have had our understanding of history shift and change over time as we learn more, reflect on the meaning of the artifacts, and perhaps even more as we begin to listen to the perspectives of others that were not included in our textbooks. And so, with many others, I have come to understand that my heritage or inheritance, literally the land upon which my family lived, wasn't just given to my great great great grandfather from "the Crown", as if it had been fashioned out of nothing. Other people's heritage, who had lived on the land before, was lost in that transaction and, repeated over and over across the continent, with appalling results.

While we cannot change the past, wherever the truth of it might lie, whatever documents are unearthed, it is undoubtedly the case that we have a responsibility to influence the course of the future. In our lifetime, that has meant learning to listen to the lived experience and memories of our First Nations, women, LGBTQ people, BIPOC, most of whom did not have a pen in their hand to create documents that have been preserved and elevated over time.

Statues have a long history of both getting built and toppled. Symbols that celebrate the actions of men and elevate them to heroic status - and my own unscientific observation is that most of these statues are of white men who, despite their accomplishments, often won by taking something from others - these can signify oppression to others, some of whom may have struggled over a few generations to find their voice. Perhaps if there were statues or monuments recognizing these many other voices, we could claim to have found balance, but they are few, and far between.

When I see language that declares that "protesters have arrived in Picton", it sounds as if they don't belong, as if they just rode into town from elsewhere, and really ought to be sent packing. I have been following the debate and discussion threads with much interest, and it seems quite clear that our local community is home to many perspectives. Perhaps, if we ever get to have dinner parties again, our conversation will be enlivened if we keep sitting at the same table. But in the meantime, casting those with differing points of view as come-from-aways perpetuates the very problematic ideology at the core of this debate -- the casting of some as "the other", the "not us".

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As I understand it, at least one part of the story that Abernethy was trying to capture involved a court appearance triggered by fisticuffs between Macdonald and a man who was protesting the Orange parade on the so-called "glorious twelfth", a parade that those who weren't Orangemen might consider racist, celebrating a slaughter, and fostering sectarian violence. Some have dismissed Macdonald's acts that day as a prank, a boyish bit of mischief. My own grandfather used to take me to Orange parades to see King Billy ride, and to make sure that I understood his visceral hatred of the Catholics. Part of my heritage, yes, and a part I learned to view critically and choose not to perpetuate. Macdonald had an option, as the presence of the protester in the story shows so clearly.

Many good or even great things have been accomplished by people who also had points of view or did things that many of us today find abhorrent. Important treaties or beneficial international agreements have been brokered by powerful men who were callous and cruel in their treatment of many - be they indigenous, women, children, queer, or poor. It's not just that our collective social conscience has evolved. Those that were mistreated at the time were most certainly well aware of their mistreatment. There were voices of dissent and opposition at the time from good people of conscience. They just weren't getting much ink in the media of the day.

So now we live in a different age. Formerly marginalized voices can find their community and a platform for disseminating their lived experience. If someone hadn't captured the video of the officer kneeling on George Floyd's neck for nine minutes while he said he couldn't breathe, how much would future generations know about the history of what went on in that death, what the meaning of the phrase "to take a knee" really meant in this decade, what it meant in the 1960s?

The Canadian government invested over $70 million dollars over a decade on the Truth and Reconciliation report. Six thousand (!) people testified, and their public testimony is also now part of the historical record. This is how the report begins:

"Canada’s residential school system for Aboriginal children was an education system in name only for much of its existence. These residential schools were created for the purpose of separating Aboriginal children from their families, in order to minimize and weaken family ties and cultural linkages, and to indoctrinate children into a new culture—the culture of the legally dominant Euro-Christian Canadian society, led by Canada’s first prime minister, Sir John A. Macdonald. The schools were in existence for well over 100 years, and many successive generations of children from the same communities and families endured the experience of them. That experience was hidden for most of Canada’s history, until Survivors of the system were finally able to find the strength, courage, and support to bring their experiences to light in several thousand court cases that ultimately led to the largest class-action lawsuit in Canada’s history... Children were abused, physically and sexually, and they died in the schools in numbers that would not have been tolerated in any school system anywhere in the country, or in the world. But, shaming and pointing out wrongdoing were not the purpose of the Commission’s mandate. Ultimately, the Commission’s focus on truth determination was intended to lay the foundation for the important question of reconciliation. Now that we know about residential schools and their legacy, what do we do about it?

Now that we know about it - the report of the Truth and Reconciliation Royal Commission is available for all who have a strong enough stomach to read it, and it is definitely tough reading - what do we do about it? Should we just venerate and celebrate the accomplishments of the man without acknowledging the tragic consequences of his actions toward others? It is not enough to say he was just

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a man of his times. For there were other options available to him, there were smart and thoughtful people voicing opposition, the harm the actions would cause were pretty clear from the outset and became increasingly clear over the next several decades.

The petition to have the statue removed came from a woman who recently wrote this: "My original intentions were to motivate council to address this issue of John A on Main Street, which I saw as harmful to my daughters, who are Indigenous. My eldest daughter asked me one day as we walked by the statue if I thought he would want to kill her too. This was an awful moment for me as a white mom. I had read Clearing the Plains, and I thought the statue was embarrassing and horrifying, but until my kid said that, I was not aware of the HARM. It was an eye opener for me, a literal eye opener. I see things differently now because of it."

It may be possible that this sculpture could become an opportunity for us to move as a community toward the path of reconciliation if we include the context of the historical documentation amply provided by the work of the hundreds of researchers, academics and the thousands of witnesses that are so very well footnoted in the Truth and Reconciliation report, and if we develop sufficient empathy and consciousness of the potential harm to the present and future generations if we do not. That context cannot be captured on a plaque. And in the absence of that context, it will forever be a symbol of oppression to many. Therefore, I do not think it should occupy such a central place in our civic square.

If a space could be found in a museum, with sufficient opportunity to provide that context, then I believe the sculpture could live on as a way to remind ourselves of the complex and tragic nature of our history. The opportunity for education of our children, our community, and our visitors could be much better managed with thoughtful presentations of the historical record and different perspectives..

Perhaps we could commission another sculpture for Main Street. One which might be more unifying and animating, without such a prescribed political agenda, and in which we all might see a part of ourselves reflected.

I thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Carlyn Moulton

Thu 2020-10-08 9:07 PM From: Andrea Dawes To: Emily Cowan Subject: JAM Statue

Hi Emily,

I included a version of this commentary on the Have your Say portal, but thought I'd send it via email as well, in case it might have a greater chance of being read by the Working Group members. Thanks for all of your work on this.

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I am quite confused by the stance taken by commenters on the John A. MacDonald statue who seem to equate its presence with a history lesson - arguing that by removing it, we are somehow erasing a part of history and our ability to learn about MacDonald and his actions. I am ready and willing to learn - and to have future generations learn - the facts about politicians’ roles in and contributions to Canadian history. However, I strongly believe that this education should take place in an environment designed for balanced, nuanced learning (e.g. a classroom or museum). And, in the case of actions involving our Indigenous communities, this learning must include an exploration of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) report’s findings on the far-reaching, devastating impact of the residential school system and other racist policies enacted by the Canadian government over time.

The statue, in its current state, certainly doesn’t provide such a learning environment. (The interactions I’ve observed to date primarily consist of tourists slinging an arm around MacDonald’s shoulders for a photo op.) Further, I really don’t see the level of detailed information required to adequately represent all sides of this complex history fitting on an accompanying plaque. As I struggle to see a scenario in which this public art piece could be properly contextualized - where passersby learn about MacDonald’s contributions to the residential school travesty, and victims and their experiences are properly recognized and honoured - I believe it should be removed from its current location, one of the County’s most visible and visited places.

I would also like to express my support for the development and implementation of a public art strategy, which The County has acknowledged is absent from our Official Plan. In its foreword, the City of Toronto’s Public Art Strategy explicitly recognizes “the symbolic significance of public art” and “commits to embedding truth and reconciliation as foundational principles for public art”. The MacDonald Statue’s Donation Agreement was signed on June 9th, 2015. That very same month, the TRC issued its Calls to Action, compelling citizens and institutions to take responsibility for addressing the injustices it brought to light. If the County had had a Public Art Strategy in place at the time - hopefully one ensuring public consultation on proposals and honouring the TRC report recommendations - my guess is we would not be confronting this difficult situation today.

Wed 2020-10-21 12:10 PM From: Scott Anderson To: Emily Cowan Subject: William Bleasdell Cameron /the frog lake massacre

If you want to have a better understanding of the era that Sir John A. Macdonald was PM i would strongly suggest you read "Blood Red the Sun" a true rendition of what happened to the hostages taken by the perpitrators of this massacre it will provide you with an insight of their action and into the Band System of governance. and the ensuing consequences.this young (man who was born and raised in Trenton) skillfully gives this true account of our historys worse slaughter. You May be able to get this book from our local liberary or from the cloud for a Kindle. I have re read it several times. Regaurdless i think we should try to better understand the issues Sir Joun A. had to deal with during his term rather than just condem him. As to the person or persons who defaced his statue with red paint they should

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be made to clean it off with a toothbrush and their names should be posted beside the statue. Yours Aye. Scott.

Wed 2020-10-21 2:05 PM From: Cameron Truesdell To: Emily Cowan Subject: Sir John A Statue

Dear sir or Madam.

Before you go tearing down the statue of our first prime minister to appease some special little snowflakes who can't handle history for what it is. Maybe you should get the opinion of the populus at large.

There is a poll on Quinte News and it shows the majority of people are in opposition of the statue being torn down 66% to 28%.

History is what it is, and should not be sanitized to not offend certain people.

The ball of course is in your court now. I am just a concerned citizen of this great country of ours, who believes History is to be left alone.

Thank you for your time.

Cameron Truesdell

Page 251 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 The Holding Court Working Group Recommendations Comments from PEHAC member Peter Lockyer October 30, 2020

To my fellow PEHAC members:

We are facing a very critical moment in our history far beyond our usual work. I think what some of us are saying is essentially this:

We appreciate the high degree of difficulty encountered by the Working Group in their challenging task. This is a very emotionally- charged current discussion in many communities.

It would have been helpful to have had a short report from the Working Group and staff on what you did, how you did it, what you found out, your recommendations and the reasoning behind them. We don’t have that. We just have a large dump of info that individual PEHAC members are sifting through to understand the various options you considered and the recommendations you are suggesting we approve.

The WG process, as I think we all agree, was seriously flawed and should be reviewed as a "lessons learned" as we move forward, as I too agree that these community conversations need to be continued within the confines of respectful, civil discussion and debate. I would suggest the use of an independent professional facilitator to help guide us in the future. That was key to Kingston’s experience.

It is important that the findings of the Working Group and PEHAC - whatever we chose - are considered by all of the community as unbiased, fair, considered and helpful in unifying us in acknowledging the past, learning from it, and forging a new way forward in full consultation with indigenous peoples and others with very practical, grassroots efforts that break down solitudes, build trust and respect, and serve as guidance as we forge a new relationship with all citizens. There were a number of good ideas put forward in deputations and comments the Working Group received that I believe should be noted in any report to Council. I found these hopeful.

We are being asked to consider all the info and WG recommendations within an exceedingly short time frame. The expectation is that our next meeting is essentially just a vote on the WG’s recommendation to be sent along to Council with more info collected from individual PEHAC members. I don’t think more info will be helpful to Council - who already have lots on their plate. What is needed is a concise synopsis of the WG’s work, our analysis of it, and PEHAC’s recommendations and thoughtful rationale supporting our recommendation.

I am unable to support the WG’s work as it is. I simply don’t understand how you arrived at your decision given the deputations, and online response you received. 59 % of respondents who replied to the Have Your Say online supported keeping the statue in its current location “as is” or keeping it in its current location with modifications of extra signage and interpretation to reflect the broader context of Macdonald’s mixed legacy. Many deputations to the Working Group also supported this view. There is no analysis of the public views expressed to the group in any report to us. And I have been contacted by several community members who submitted viewpoints that don’t seem to be included in any documents provided to us. I have heard from one highly - qualified person who wished to be considered for the Community Representative position on the Working Group but did not get a response from staff over her inquiry.

As we all agree, the process itself was fundamentally flawed. And I am very troubled by a secret ballot by 7 people in a process that was inherently meant to be transparent and to reflect the broader community perspectives.

1 Page 252 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 The Holding Court Working Group Recommendations Comments from PEHAC member Peter Lockyer October 30, 2020 There are some other considerations that should influence our final recommendations. One is the legal implications of any decision. I am not sure we can do what the WG is proposing in removing the statue into storage. An agreement was signed between the municipality and the Macdonald Project on June 9, 2015. It is readily available on the County website. It was not considered by the Working Group during its deliberations until your last meeting, when the legal implications were brought to your atttention by another Councillor sitting in on your deliberations. Surely this is basic to any decision the Working Group and PEHAC makes. Perhaps it was not considered because of the more contentious option under serious consideration by the group to destroy the artwork and melt it down into a bench, or to toss it into the dump.

What PEHAC members are being asked to approve may in fact be illegal. A more prudent course is to delay any actions until there is a legal opinion on it.

We can expect extensive media interest in our decision, which may run contrary to our branding of this place as a welcoming, historic, rural destination. There are, as well, initial discussions going on now with our Mohawk neighbours on assisting them in their quest for the return of Foresters’ Island, and to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month with them this June. I would be saddened if our community plunges into anger and bitterness that setbacks these very fragile initiatives that are truly reconciliation in action.

Most of all, I believe we are squandering an opportunity to be thoughtful, imaginative and guiding to Council and the community as we encourage more conversations on this painful, contemporary issue.

Will we unite the community or bitterly divide it? Will we follow the wise counsel of the Truth and Reconciliation Report and avoid shaming and blaming while promoting truth, understanding, compassion, and respectful dialogue that nurtures a new vision of our community and the country? Will we listen closely to the voices of First Nations and respect their views? Will we have learned from history - or are we just repeating it? I am not certain we are going forward. We seem to be staying firmly stuck in the past. There is such an opportunity to pioneer a new relationship with our Mohawk neighbours and other visible minorities who are our fellow citizens. I am worried we are going to set back these extraordinary possibilities.

As I stated in my deputation," I am for more history; not less. More public education; not less. The very best of us - not the least or worst.”

I think it is critical that each of us ask ourselves this. What good has come from this bitter, nasty exercise? I am saddened by the way this has turned out.

Peter

2 Page 253 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

Comments on the Report of the “Holding Court” John A. Macdonald Statue Working Group

Prepared by Liz Driver for consideration at the PEHAC meeting on 4 November 2020 & to be included in the materials for Council at its 17 November 2020 meeting

Note: The report has no numbered headings and the 7 pages are not numbered. References below are to the pages as if numbered 1-7.

PREAMBLE

PEHAC’s role & the Working Group’s Terms of Reference The Report incorrectly states (p 2) that PEHAC struck the Working Group (“WG”) on 2 July 2020 in response to growing community concern about the statue and at the request of public deputations. To the contrary, I was informed in advance of the July meeting by Chair Ken Dewar that the initiative was at the request of Mayor Ferguson (but I now understand that it was the CAO). It is important to note that PEHAC is a statutory committee authorized under the Ontario Heritage Act (“OHA”) to provide cultural heritage advice to Council with respect to the OHA. Its statutory duties do not extend to advising on the placement of works of public art (or commenting on artistic merit), except as the art may impact a heritage-designated property, the Picton Main Street Heritage Conservation District, or other property with cultural heritage value (see PEHAC’s Mural Policy, which clearly articulates this). Nevertheless, PEHAC is a robust committee with experience discussing and evaluating matters that touch upon history and heritage; however, in their work PEHAC members should always be guided by the OHA and avoid bringing personal opinions to decision-making.

Staff drafted the Terms of Reference for the WG, with PEHAC’s input. The WG’s mandate is to “advise [PEHAC] in their recommendation to Council in regards to the current installation” of the statue. The second goal under “Goals/Purpose,” further defines the relationship of the WG to PEHAC and PEHAC’s role: The WG will “conduct research, carry out surveys and prepare documentation, as necessary, to assist [PEHAC] in their recommendation to assist Council in their decision on the future” of the statue (emphasis added). The WG was not so strictly bound as PEHAC with respect to personal opinions, although they did have an implicit responsibility to identify and weigh public input.

The Terms of Reference do not prescribe how much research, how the report is to be written, or whether the WG’s recommendation must be unanimous. Neither do the Terms of Reference say that PEHAC must endorse the WG’s recommendation or describe the nature of PEHAC’s recommendation – only that PEHAC’s recommendation must assist Council. I note that staff’s expression in the Report is that PEHAC would “present the recommendation to Council” (p 2), not endorse.

How should PEHAC respond to the WG report? The WG elicited a strong public response, with many thoughtful and passionate emails, letters and deputations; however, it is clear from the Report, and from comments by PEHAC WG members at the 28 October PEHAC meeting, that the WG did not reach consensus and they

1 Page 254 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

were only able to produce the recommendation to remove the statue by an inconclusive, flawed, ranked secret ballot process (described below).

What should PEHAC’s response be to the Report? In my view, it would be best to recognize the work of the WG, receive the Report, and provide the Report to Council with PEHAC’s commentary. This would assist Council in their decision. It will not assist Council for PEHAC members to engage in the same debate as carried out by the WG, in a single meeting, with the expected outcome of no consensus and a divided committee. Unfortunately, at the time of writing my comments, it seems that this is precisely what is going to happen.

Here follow my comments on the Report, following the order of the Report, in the hope that they will inform discussion at the 4 November PEHAC meeting and ultimately assist Council.

COMMENTS

Background • Page 1, parag. 1, does not convey the significant public and institutional support for the statue project, with reference to Peter Lockyer’s October 6 deputation, Appendix A – The Macdonald Project and Community Engagement. • Page 1, parag. 2: It would be useful context with respect to PEHAC’s statutory role to note that PEHAC advised Council to approve the heritage application for the relocation of the statue in the forecourt of the library. • Page 2, final parag.: As noted above, the WG initiative did not originate with PEHAC, but was apparently at the request of CAO.

The Working Group & Consultation • Page 2, bottom, states that “Deputations and meeting notes were submitted to PEHAC for inclusion in their agenda.” Not mentioned is that PEHAC members were also invited to observe the meetings. One meeting that I observed later in the process began with a stern warning from the Chair that microphones would be muted for any member that behaved improperly, and it was obvious from body language that some WG members were tense. These dynamics do not appear in the Report. • Page 3, parags. 2 & 3: The Report references the hundreds of responses received and identifies some of the suggestions, with a full list of suggestions in Attachment 3. A major failing of the Report is that there is no quantitative or qualitative analysis of the public input. Quantitative analysis o I observed the zoom meeting where staff introduced the findings of the public input. Staff stated that they identified themes, but did not attach numbers to the themes because “this was not a survey”. Thus, although the WG were receiving public input, they did not have the assistance of staff to quantify this input as one factor in their deliberations. o Similarly, the Report does not tabulate and calculate what proportion of the public supported which option, to inform PEHAC or to assist Council. Council’s recent decision with respect to Picton Terminals was aided by a chart recording all the concerns, the names of people and their various concerns, then a tally of

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the number of people with particular concerns. Numbers are not the only tool, but they are an important tool for decision-making. o PEHAC member Don Payne, in his volunteer capacity, went through a similar exercise as staff did for the Picton Terminals, analyzing the 137 emails and the 83 responses to Have Your Say (but not the deputations and letters). He found that:

“… the vast majority of the messages were very clear in identifying the writer’s position. The results of my classification of the 220 messages are as follows:

(A) Keep the statue where it is 82 responses (37.3%)

(B) Keep the statue but with alterations to its location, support info, etc. 48 responses (21.8%)

(C ) Remove the statue 63 responses. (28.6%)

(D) Other 27 responses (12.3%)

If you combine the first two options which both include the retention of the statue, you see that 59.1% of the responses support retention in some form, more than twice as many as supported removal. The numbers do not support the Removal option.

Qualitative analysis o The WG received a number of written submissions and deputations articulating important strands of the issue from various groups and individuals. There is very little evidence in the Report of how the WG responded to this input. There is no analysis and synthesis of the thoughtful public and institutional input to aid PEHAC or Council, and no highlighting of key submissions. o There is no record of Chief Maracle’s words to the WG and no record of how the WG responded to Chief Maracle’s comments. o The WG did not seem to engage with Kingston’s positive and constructive approach to its more deep-seated connection to Sir John A. Macdonald. o There is no evidence that the WG probed the submission from the Museums of Prince Edward, which concludes that the grounds of Macaulay Heritage Park are not an appropriate location because the statue does not fit the site’s mission. Given the trust that the public expressed in museums, especially for providing context, it is surprising that the WG did not re-engage with the Museums to discuss the role the Museums could play in the development of interpretative material for the statue, wherever the statue is located. Museum activities are not restricted to the physical site.

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The Decision • Page 4, last parag., states that the “votes were cast via an anonymous process.” The Report should be transparent about the reasons for relying on an anonymous, ranked ballot, especially if the reason was a lack of consensus and inability to reconcile opposing views. • The results of the vote are displayed in a table, without an explanation of the ranking and how the “total average” was calculated. For the information of PEHAC and Council, here is the explanation provided to me by staff person Noah Lister-Stevens:

SurveyMonkey uses a simple average system to quantify the results in the rightmost column. Since survey participants rank their choices from 1-5, the system takes the combined score of all the votes for a given option, then divides the result by the number of votes: that divided result is the weighted average, out of 5. Confusingly, since "1" means "most preferred", the survey assigns that as a "5.00" when quantifying it to indicate it higher in the calculation. So if 5 members voted 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 for one option, the survey assigns the scores 5.00, 4.00, 3.00, 2.00 and 1.00 to those results respectively.

For example, with the most preferred option in the working group (modify) [sic, Noah Lister-Stevens must mean (remove)], the members voted as 1, 1, 1, 1, 2, 4, and 5. Flipped to their actual scores, those numbers are assigned the values 5.00, 5.00, 5.00, 5.00, 4.00, 2.00 and 1.00, respectively. Then those values are added together to make 27.00, out of a max possible score of 35.00. Since there were 7 votes, we just divide 27.00/7 to make 3.86, which is the final average. So the final result for the most preferred option was 3.86 out of 5.

• There is no interpretation of the results to demonstrate how close the margin was between “remove” and those WG members who thought the statue should stay in place, either modified or as is (4 versus 3 for their first choice). Similarly, the difference between the total average for remove (3.86) and modify (3.29) is tiny (0.57). • The result of a survey/vote is influenced by the choices presented. In this case, the categories included in the ranked ballot did not represent a clear choice between the essential question before the WG: remove entirely from public view or remain in public view (like Brexit!), with the result that the allocation of votes was skewed. The ballot variations of remain (modify, relocate, as is) would have been better addressed as a separate matter. • The top two choices of the WG – remove or remain with modifications - contradict each other, which is another indicator of the lack of consensus in the WG. • At the same time, the report suggests that the WG would find “modify” acceptable, when it states that the WG “agreed that their second-highest ranked choice, modify the statue, would be the next most appropriate outcome.”

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Working Group Recommendation • For all the above reasons, the results are not a strong endorsement of remove. Yet, the WG recommended removal “based on this vote.” PEHAC and Council must balance this slim win for remove, based on a vote of 7 people in the WG, and possibly another divided outcome from PEHAC’s 9 members, with the strong support for remain expressed in the public responses (59.1%). • The explanation that the WG “voted with the assumption that the statue would be ‘Remove[d] to storage for later consideration’” camouflages the fact that the removal to storage will almost certainly be permanent. The phrase “for later consideration” will not reassure residents who strongly wish the statue to remain on public view in some form.

FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS

“The principal financial consideration” is identified as $15,000-$20,000 for removing the statue. The fact that staff have not identified the additional cost of another $15,000- $20,000 for the possible return of the statue to public view after “later consideration” is telling. If “removed for later consideration” is to be believed, the actual financial consideration is $30,000-$40,000.

RISKS

The report misunderstands and understates the risk of removing the statue, when it states, “Removal of the statue will likely prove unpopular with some residents.” The most serious risk arises from Council basing its decision on the slim result from an anonymous ranked ballot of 7 people who could not arrive at a consensus and on the possible divided outcome from 9 PEHAC members on 4 November. Council are barreling towards a decision on 17 November that may have the unintended consequence of leading to societal division rather than reconciliation.

There is a real risk of members of the public resorting to harassment and vandalism, to assert their views, as has already happened.

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After reading the WG report and the comments received from the public and listening to the discussions at the October 28 PEHAC meeting, I have come to the belief that we are addressing the issue of the statue in the absence of an understanding of our relationship with the indigenous people who live in our midst and in our area. I think that our advice to Council should encourage them to initiate a larger process involving all of the stakeholders with the goal of identifying what we would like that relationship should be and how it can be developed. This is a complex issue and would not be resolved by another 3- month exercise. It would require skilled facilitation and guidance. However, at its end, questions such as “What do we do with this statue?” could be examined within a larger context that had been accepted by Council and the community.

In the short term, I feel that a decision on the future of the statue on Main Street is really being made in a vacuum and is being driven by a faulty process. It appears from John’s comments on Wednesday that the WG operated basically as two adversarial camps rather than as one body trying to come up with the best solution. This is unfortunate but it is probably a reflection of the make-up of the group and we have to remember that those people were selected by PEHAC so we really can not look back and complain. They tried to come up with an answer using the Truth and Reconciliation Report, a national document, as their only only point of reference.

I feel that the WG missed an opportunity when they failed to do any organized assessment of public opinion on the future of Holding Court. Essentially, whatever is sent to Council is the conclusion of a few people who sat in a few meetings to throw ideas back and forth and to attempt to convince each other of a particular point of view. This applies to PEHAC as well as to the WG. I think that Council would have been better served by a more open process that encouraged the involvement of a much broader range of people. (I understand that the Kingston process took a year and a half with the benefit of a facilitation by a professional consulting firm. We took about 3 months with no external help to guide the process.)

In my presentation to PEHAC, I said that I would like to see the statue remain in place with the addition of more complete and balanced information about MacDonald’s history. I would be prepared to soften that stance if I knew that Council was prepared to address the larger matter of our broad relationship to the indigenous community.

Don

Page 259 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 THE HOLDING COURT WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS Comments from PEHAC member Peter Lockyer November 3, 2020

To my fellow members of the Prince Edward Heritage Advisory Committee (PEHAC):

We are facing a very critical moment in our history far beyond our usual work. I think what some of us are saying is essentially this:

We appreciate the high degree of difficulty encountered by the Working Group in their challenging task. This is a very emotionally- charged current discussion in many communities.

It would have been helpful to have had a report with more detailed analysis from the Working Group and staff on what you did, how you did it, what you found out, your recommendations and the reasoning behind them. We don’t have that. We just have a large dump of info that individual PEHAC members are sifting through to understand the various options you considered and the recommendation you are suggesting we approve.

I am unable to support the WG’s work as it is.

In my view, we tasked you with a great responsibility:

1. To undertake a survey of community opinion to determine their views and suggestions 2. To do this work in accordance with the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s guiding principles 3. To report to PEHAC with an independent, balanced, and thoughtful view of what you heard and the steps you recommend on the future of the John A. Macdonald statue

1. A SURVEY OF PUBLIC OPINION

Your report to us does not contain a detailed analysis of community views that shaped your recommendations. PEHAC members have tried to sort through the data – and our initial analysis shows 59.1% of respondents wish to have the statue remain “as is”, remain with modifications such as more signage and interpretation, or re-located to another site. These results do not support your recommendation of removal.

As well, we’re not sure we have received all the public feedback. In the days since our last meeting, I have had several people contact me to say they don’t think their comments were posted, they didn’t hear back from staff about presenting a deputation, or participating as the community representative on the

1 Page 260 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 THE HOLDING COURT WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS Comments from PEHAC member Peter Lockyer November 3, 2020

Working Group, or were told deadlines had passed. And yet, here we are still receiving deputations at PEHAC. In one instance, a local resident who posted a Facebook story on the vandalism of the statue on Canada Day forwarded the international interest in the story – 2700 responses with 10,000 retweets. This was sent to staff, but does not appear to have been included in your report.

I simply don’t understand how you arrived at your decision given the deputations, and online response you received. In the end, 7 people voted in a “secret” ballot in what was supposed to be a transparent process. The vote was weighted and ranked so the members of the group had to vote for all options - even if they were totally against that choice. And by a 4-3 vote, your recommendation to remove the statue into storage was carried.

So actually, only 4 people made this decision on behalf of all the people who made online comments and deputations.

2. RESPECTING THE TRUTH AND RECONCILIATION COMMISSION GUIDELINES

Your work was to be in keeping with the guiding principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.

The Commission’s report DOES NOT recommend taking down statues, or changing school or street names. It very wisely counselled that we should not blame, shame or seek revenge. We should in fact, add more monuments to celebrate the many contributions of indigenous peoples and visible minorities who have helped shaped the history of this country. Several people who commented, suggested we commission artwork reflecting the perspectives of indigenous peoples to stand alongside the Macdonald statue. And yet, this idea doesn’t seem to show up as an option in your report. This is a way of being constructive rather than destructive; of being united rather than divided. Your recommendation to remove the statue actually ignores the sound advice of the Commission.

Chief Donald Maracle of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte opened your first meeting with his thoughts. You didn’t record …or transcribe… those comments, and a summary is not available so it is not included in your report. His views have vanished. But Chief Maracle has consistently stated that we should “add to history; not delete it.” I think all of us would have been interested in hearing his views, and to have had his thoughts considered by the Working Group.

In his October 29th email to committee members, the Vice-Chair of PEHAC, Brendan O’Connor, who also served on the Working Group, explained that “It seems that a lot of people have been commenting on Chief Maracle’s stance on historical statues. The Chief has his stance but does not speak for all Indigenous peoples.”

Instead, Brendan referred members to the deputation of an indigenous high school student who made an emotional presentation to the Working Group. I am sure everyone here would say we were touched by her presentation, and that we are interested in hearing all views – including Chief Maracle’s testimony – which has been lost.

The experiences of Kingston, another nearby community which is also “ground zero” for John A. Macdonald went through an extensive 18 – month consultation process facilitated by a professional First Nations consulting firm. They are keeping their Macdonald statue. But they are launching an ambitious,

2 Page 261 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 THE HOLDING COURT WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS Comments from PEHAC member Peter Lockyer November 3, 2020 progressive program of fundamental change. While Kingston was contacted, their experience seemed of little interest to the Working Group.

3. AN INDEPENDENT, BALANCED AND THOUGHTFUL REPORT

As we all agree, the process itself was fundamentally flawed. So, perhaps it is not surprising that we have a flawed recommendation.

Throughout the entire process, there has been a great struggle for power and control of the Working Group – to stack its membership with a particular point of view, to discard some views while giving preference to others, and to force a final “secret vote” that cannot be justified by any reasonable and balanced view of your work. This wasn’t a thoughtful review of best practices. It’s been - in reality - a confirmation of a pre-determined outcome, a modern-day Star Chamber. The Working Group has failed in the task we asked you to do.

4. THE IMPACT OF A PEHAC DECISION

4.a A LEGAL DECISION

There are some other considerations that should influence our final recommendations. One is the legal implications of any decision. I am not sure we can do what the WG is proposing in removing the statue into storage.

An agreement was signed between the municipality and the Macdonald Project on June 9, 2015. It is readily available on the County website. It was not considered by the Working Group during its deliberations until your last meeting, when the legal implications were brought to your attention by another Councillor sitting in on your deliberations. Surely this is basic to any decision the Working Group and PEHAC makes. Perhaps it was not considered because of the more contentious option under serious consideration by the group at that meeting - to destroy the artwork and melt it down into a bench, or to toss it into the dump.

What PEHAC members are being asked to approve may in fact be illegal. A more prudent course is to delay any actions until there is a legal opinion on it. Why would we provoke a legal challenge when this could easily have been avoided with alternative options for the statue’s future?

4.b MEDIA INTEREST

We can expect extensive media interest in our decision, which may run contrary to our branding of this place as a welcoming, historic, rural destination. I believe this national news coverage will almost certainly be universally bad, and damaging to our community.

4.c OTHER CONSTRUCTIVE INITIATIVES

There are, as well, initial discussions going on now with our Mohawk neighbours on assisting them in their quest for the return of Foresters’ Island, and to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Month with them this June. I would be saddened if our community plunges into anger and bitterness that setbacks these very fragile initiatives that are truly reconciliation in action.

4.d A SQUANDERED OPPORTUNITY FOR GRASSROOTS RECONCILIATION

3 Page 262 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1 THE HOLDING COURT WORKING GROUP RECOMMENDATIONS Comments from PEHAC member Peter Lockyer November 3, 2020

Most of all, I believe we are squandering an opportunity to be thoughtful, imaginative and guiding to Council and the community as we encourage more conversations on this painful, contemporary issue.

I am not certain we are going forward. We seem to be staying firmly stuck in the past. There is such an opportunity to pioneer a new relationship with our Mohawk neighbours and other visible minorities who are our fellow citizens – and to create a blueprint for profound, systemic change. I am worried we are going to set back these extraordinary possibilities.

PEHAC’s job is to advise Council and staff on heritage matters – to encourage heritage conservation – and especially within Picton’s Heritage Conservation District. The Working Group’s recommendation is asking us to take some of that heritage away. I just do not see how hiding away history promotes learning more about it.

As I stated in my deputation to the Working Group," I am for more history; not less. More public education; not less. The very best of us - not the least or worst.”

I think it is critical that each of us ask ourselves this. What good has come from this bitter, nasty exercise? I am saddened by the way this has turned out.

I propose we receive the Working Group’s Report, and we forward it to Council without our approval, but with a summary of our comments.

Peter

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October 19, 2020

To Whom it May Concern,

Regarding the portrait of John A. Macdonald which I was commissioned to create for Prince Edward County, please note the following: - This commission was undertaken to represent an actual event in the Picton courthouse. - The foundational directive of the commission was that I, ‘sculpt J.A. Macdonald as he may have looked at the age of 19’. - The commission project received considerable scrutiny and all steps of due process. - A by-law was enacted in which PEC representatives were instructed to commit to engage in a donation agreement. - All aspects of the commission were undertaken and completed according to this agreement.

This portrayal was professionally commissioned and conducted according to all specifications between myself as the artist, the commissioning committee and the representatives of Prince Edward County. I believe that communities have the obligation to resolve how best to present their heritage. That, and in not claiming personal ownership of the work, does not translate into a lack of caring or concern about how this sculpture is assigned a role in the reconciliation process.

I emphatically and without hesitation, refute anyone’s right to destroy, deface, distort or repurpose any portion of the bronze portrait design of John A. Macdonald titled Holding Court. I also reserve the right to be consulted on any proposed signage on the site that may detract from the artistic merit and integrity of the bronze portrait. Please refer to article 28.2 of the Canadian Copyright Act.

Sincerely,

Ruth Abernethy www.ruthabernethy.com

Page 264 of 273 AGENDA ITEM #7.1

From: Ruth Abernethy

Sent: October 19, 2020 3:44 PM

To: Emily Cowan

Cc: Chad Curtis

Subject: John A. Macdonald - Artist's statement of Moral Copyright

Dear Ms. Cowen.

Thank you for your efforts on the Macdonald Working Group Committee.

I have become aware that my stated 'non-ownership' of the Macdonald portrait has been incorrectly presented in the dialogue of the portrait. Such misrepresentation is unacceptable and declaration of my Moral Rights to the sculpture are clearly expressed in the attached doc below. Thank you for sharing this information to anyone involved in the resolution process, and for confirming for me that it has been shared.

In 2016 I was prompted to scrutinize the word RECONCILIATION -- the goal with which Canadians are tasked.

The process in Picton has vered from this goal.

May opposing sides in this public debate not squander this opportunity to forge an inclusive historical narrative of which we can all be proud.

1. the restoration of friendly relations.

"his reconciliation with your uncle"

Similar:

reuniting

reunion

conciliation

reconcilement

pacification

appeasement

placating

propitiation

mollification

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resolution settlement rectification settling resolving mending remedying restoration of harmony agreement compromise understanding peace an end to hostilities amity concord rapprochement detente fence-mending harmonizing harmonization synthesis squaring adjustment balancing syncretization

Opposite: estrangement alienation feud

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incompatibility

2. the action of making one view or belief compatible with another.

"he aims to bring about a reconciliation between art and technology"

Ruth Abernethy www.ruthabernethy.com

519 - 897 - 3409

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"Holding Court" Working Group - October 20, 2020 Meeting Notes Meeting #9, 9:30 AM https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84287049489?pwd=d1p2cXB5TDZFaDhBczIzYlM5T0pZQT09 Meeting ID: 842 8704 9489 Passcode: an.*rK1Px

1. Traditional Land Acknowledgement Chairperson Ken Dewar gave a traditional land acknowledgement.

2. Roll Call Members present: • Judith Burfoot (All Welcome Here) • Ken Dewar (Chair) • John Hirsch (Heritage Advisory Committee) • R John Garside (Museum Advisory Committee) • Tracey Gazley (Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte) • Brendan O'Connor (Heritage Advisory Committee) • Fern Martins (citizen member) • David Warrick (Friends of Macdonald) Member regrets: • Councillor Josh Hill (Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte) Staff present: • Emily Cowan, Community Programs Supervisor • Noah Lister-Stevens, Policy Analyst

3. Review updated options – Staff Staff walked the Working Group through the updated options, that were broken down into five camps. These were:

1. Keep the statue as is 2. Remove the statue a. Remove to storage for later consideration – no location identified 3. Relocate the statue

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a. WG members may select this option, staff would examine the feasibility of the various relocation options in their report to PEHAC/Council, and the public would be consulted on which viable options they would most prefer. 4. Replace the statue a. WG members may select this option and provide further direction on theme, staff would engage a group of stakeholders to come up with ideas/suggestions and the public would be consulted before final decisions were made. 5. Modify the Statue a. WG members may select this option and provide direction as to the type of modification recommended. Staff would engage a group of stakeholders to provide the detail (wording for a plaque, website content as a catalyst for conversation) and the public would be consulted before a final modification was made.

4. Intro to Decide - Ken Chairperson Ken Dewar then provided an overview of the voting process. The vote would be held anonymously via the website SurveyMonkey, with each member ranking each option in order of preference, and how well they believed each option fit the criteria identified in the last two sessions. SurveyMonkey uses a weighted average system, meaning that it would take the combined score of all the votes for a given option, then divide the result by the number of votes: that divided result is the weighted average, out of 5.

Staff would email the survey to each member of the Working Group and close the survey once all had voted.

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5. Decide – Voting A screenshot of the Working Group's vote breakdown was as follows (weighted average score in rightmost column):

Thus, the Working Group voted to remove the Holding Court statue as their most preferred option, with modifying the statue as the second most-preferred option (and also the one that would be chosen should removal violate the artist's legal rights).

6. Next steps: PEHAC (Oct 28), Special Council Mtg. (Nov 17) - Staff The Working Group noted that the staff report detailing the Working Group's decision specify their recommendation, that "modify" the statue ought to be chosen should removing it prove incompatible with the artist's legal rights, and that the report would come to PEHAC at their

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next session on October 28th, before PEHAC's recommendation be sent to Council on the special session held on November 17th.

7. Working Group closing remarks - Ken Chairperson Ken Dewar closed this session of the Working Group and thanked members, staff, those who gave deputations and all involved in the process for their work.

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THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF PRINCE EDWARD

BY-LAW NO. XXX-2020

A BY-LAW TO CONFIRM THE PROCEEDINGS OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CORPORATION OF THE COUNTY OF PRINCE EDWARD AT ITS SPECIAL MEETING HELD ON NOVEMBER 17, 2020

WHEREAS pursuant to Section 5, of The Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25, as amended, the powers of a municipal corporation are to be exercised by its Council;

AND WHEREAS pursuant to Section 10 (2), of The Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. c.25, as amended a single-tier municipality may pass by-laws respecting, governance structure of the municipality and its local boards, accountability and transparency of the municipality and its operations and of its local boards and their operations, financial management of the municipality and its local boards, public assets of the municipality, economic, social and environmental, health and safety, services and things that the municipality is authorized to provide, protection of persons and property, animals, structures including fences, signs and business licensing;

AND WHEREAS pursuant to Section 272, of The Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. c.25, as amended provides that a By-law passed in good faith under any Act shall not be quashed or open to review in whole or in part by any court because of unreasonableness or supposed unreasonableness of the by-law;

AND WHEREAS, it is deemed expedient that the proceedings of the Council of The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward, at this special meeting, be confirmed and adopted by by-law;

NOW THEREFORE, the Council of The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward enacts as follows:

1. THAT the actions of the Council of The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward, at its special meeting held on November 17, 2020 in respect of each motion and resolution passed and other actions taken by the Council of The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward, at this meeting, are hereby adopted and confirmed as if all such proceedings were expressly embodied in this By-law.

2. THAT the Mayor and proper officials of The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward are hereby authorized and directed to do all things necessary to give effect to the action of the Council of The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward referred to in the preceding section hereof.

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3. THAT the Mayor and Clerk are authorized and directed to execute all documents necessary in that behalf, and to affix thereto the Seal of The Corporation of the County of Prince Edward.

Read a first, second and third time and finally passed this 17th day of November, 2020.

______Catalina Blumenberg, CLERK Steve Ferguson, MAYOR

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