Edukos Zone International is situated on land and waterways that hold a rich history of human activity spanning thousands of years. We recognize the privilege of benefiting from this land, which sustains all aspects of our organization. The original caretakers of this territory have long understood how to utilize its resources while ensuring the well-being of future generations. The land upon which Edukos Zone stands is part of the Dish with One Spoon Covenant—an agreement established among Indigenous nations to govern the sharing of land and water resources. At its core is the image of a single dish holding abundant bounty and one spoon to draw from it. The essence of this agreement lies in the principle of taking only what is needed and leaving enough for others to thrive. The Dish with One Spoon agreement endures to this day, and all nations are invited to uphold its principles.

Many Indigenous peoples refer to North America as Turtle Island, a reference originating from common oral histories. According to this narrative, the world was once submerged in a vast sea without any land. The muskrat, through a selfless act, brought up a handful of mud from the depths of the water, placing it on the back of a turtle. From this, North America emerged as we know it today. The image of the great turtle carrying the earth and its inhabitants serves as a reminder of the profound respect we owe to the environment that sustains us.

The City of Toronto derives its name from the Indigenous word, t’karonto, which describes a place with trees standing in the water. Although this term could have applied to various locations, it became associated with Toronto on maps due to French explorers. The region around northern Lake Ontario, where Toronto now stands, has been the territory of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy of Six Nations, including the Cayuga, Oneida, Onondaga, Mohawk, Seneca, Tuscarora, and the Wyandot Nation. Additionally, this area falls under the territory of Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit, who are part of the Anishinaabe Nation. Other nations, both recorded and unrecorded, have also called this land their home.

In the present day, Toronto remains home to Indigenous, Inuit, and Métis communities. We extend our heartfelt appreciation—Miigwetch, nya:weh, merci, and thank you—to the people whose territory allows us to live and thrive. We commit ourselves to translating our acknowledgment into meaningful action by becoming partners in caring for the land and water in harmony with its original caretakers.