November 4, 2025: Treaties Recognition Week Presentation

Chatham-Kent Public Library is pleased to host Dean M. Jacobs at Chatham Branch (120 Queen St.) on Thursday, November 4 at 6:30PM.

Mr. Jacobs, with Walpole Island First Nation’s Heritage Centre, will draw on his over 5 decades of public service working to help protect natural and cultural heritage and promote community well-being of the Walpole Island First Nation within its homeland. This presentation focuses on pre-Confederation Treaties between the British Imperial Crown and the ancestors of Walpole Island while addressing 'Truth and Reconciliation' based on mutual trust and respect.

All are welcome to attend this presentation.

Treaties Recognition Week in Ontario is an opportunity to learn more about our collective Treaty rights and obligations. The week helps create greater understanding and nurture relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples and communities.

About Dean Jacobs:

Dean Jacobs has dedicated over 52 years to serving the Walpole Island First Nation (WIFN), specializing in Land Claim and Hosting Agreement negotiations. A former Chief of WIFN, Dean has played a pivotal role in governance, policy, and advocacy.

Beyond his leadership within WIFN, he is an Adjunct Professor in the Interfaculty Program in Public Health at Western University, contributing to academic discourse on Indigenous governance and environmental policy. His scholarship includes a prize-winning article on Indigenous history, recognized by the Canadian Historical Association in 2021.

Dean has served on esteemed boards, including the University of Windsor’s Board of Governors, the International Joint Commission’s Great Lakes Water Quality Board & Research Managers Council, the Ontario Heritage Foundation, and the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (Mexico/USA/Canada). His contributions to environmental stewardship and Indigenous rights have had a lasting impact.

Honored with two eagle feathers and three honorary doctorate degrees, Dean’s legacy is deeply rooted in leadership, scholarship, and advocacy. His work continues to shape Indigenous governance, environmental policy, and the preservation of cultural heritage.

“WIFN’s journey is one of strength and vision—asserting Indigenous governance, honoring our Treaties, nurturing our relationship with the land, and building meaningful partnerships to shape a sovereign future.”