For immediate release: SON’s response to disturbance of ancestral remains in SON Territory.
July 6, 2025
Media Release: Clarification Regarding Recent Construction Activity Near Known Burial Site
The Saugeen Ojibway Nation (SON) is aware of the community's concern regarding our response to construction activity near a known burial site in South Bruce Peninsula. We are compelled to clarify the facts and address the misinformation.
On the evening of Thursday, July 3, 2025, a community member contacted the SON Environment Office to report that a homeowner was widening a driveway at a property adjacent to a site where ancestral remains were confirmed in fall of 2023—under very similar circumstances.
That same evening, SON EO staff attended the area, confirmed active disturbance, and immediately contacted the Municipality and the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) to request a Stop Work Order to prevent any further work in the area.
On Friday, July 4, the Town of South Bruce Peninsula informed SON EO that it “would not have authority to stop their work.” We continue to press for intervention and compliance from all appropriate authorities.
It is important to note that the burial site has not yet been formally declared, despite repeated requests. If the declaration had been approved, the area would be subject to protected buffers and mandatory construction monitoring—measures that could have prevented this re-disturbance.
This situation underscores the serious gaps in Ontario’s legislative framework when it comes to the protection of Indigenous cultural heritage and burial sites. Existing laws do not provide clear authority to Indigenous Nations or even municipalities to act swiftly in known high-sensitivity areas unless the site is formally registered and recognized by the Province. We continue to advocate for reforms that would give us a stronger role in protecting ancestral resting places in our Territory.
We understand and share the community’s frustration. Protecting the resting places of our ancestors is one of our most sacred responsibilities. While we acted quickly and decisively, the failure to prevent this incident reflects systemic barriers—not a lack of will or action by the SON.
We are actively working to find a solution and path forward regarding the recent activities that took place. This includes ongoing communication with the responsible authorities, exploring legal and procedural options, and ensuring that this issue remains a priority until it is properly resolved.
We remain committed to ensuring accountability and continue to push for the legislative changes and protections that our ancestors deserve.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Saugeen Ojibway Nation Environment Office
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Regarding Recent Construction Activity Near a Known Burial Site Saugeen Ojibway Nation – July 6, 2025
- Why can’t you share the specific address or location of the burial site?
To protect the integrity of burial site and out of respect for our ancestors, we do not share or confirm specific addresses or locations of burial areas. This is a cultural responsibility and a safety measure. Publicizing these locations can lead to curiosity-driven disturbance, vandalism, or unintentional harm. We ask for understanding and support in ensuring these sacred sites remain protected and treated with the care and respect they deserve.
- What happened near the burial site on July 3, 2025?
A community member reported that a homeowner was widening their driveway adjacent to a known burial site where ancestral remains were confirmed in 2023. Heavy equipment was seen on site and disturbance was confirmed by SON Environment Office staff that evening.
- Did SON take action when notified?
Yes. SON Environment Office staff immediately attended the site on the evening of July 3 and confirmed that construction activity had occurred. That same evening, they contacted the Municipality and the Bereavement Authority of Ontario (BAO) and other authorities to request a Stop Work Order.
- Was the work stopped?
As of Friday, July 4, the Town of South Bruce Peninsula advised SON that they did not have the authority to stop the work. Through the weekend, SON continues to push for enforcement and intervention from relevant authorities.
- Why wasn't the burial site protected from this kind of disturbance?
The burial site has not yet been formally declared under provincial legislation . Without a formal declaration, protective buffers and mandatory construction monitoring cannot be enforced. These measures could have prevented the current situation.
- Why hasn’t the burial site been formally declared yet?
The declaration process is handled by the Province of Ontario and has been slow, despite advocacy from SON. This delay is part of a broader issue involving gaps in Ontario’s legislation on the protection of Indigenous burial sites and cultural heritage.
- What is SON doing to prevent this from happening again? SON continues to:
● Press the Province to formally declare the burial site and implement protection measures.
● Push for stronger legislation that gives Indigenous Nations more authority to protect burial sites.
● Work with the Municipality , BAO, Ministry and other agencies to seek enforcement action for this incident.
● Explore legal and procedural options to resolve this matter and prevent future occurrences.
- Is SON still working on the issue?
Yes. SON is actively pursuing a solution and a path forward for the recent disturbance. The matter remains a top priority for the Environment Office, and we are working with the appropriate authorities to ensure accountability and protection of the site.
- How can the community help?
Community members can help by:
● Reporting suspected disturbances or construction in sensitive areas.
● Supporting legislative change by raising awareness and engaging with elected officials.
● Trusting that SON remains committed to protecting our ancestors and advocating on behalf of the Nation
