Moccasin Identifier™ and UFCW Canada marked Treaty recognition and reconciliation with the unveiling of a major new public artwork on November 4, 2025. The Urban Treaty Place Mural, created by Anishnaabe artist Philip Cote of Moose Deer Point First Nation, now stands at UFCW Canada’s national office (61 International Boulevard, Etobicoke) as a permanent visual reminder of the enduring presence of Indigenous Peoples and the importance of Treaty relationships.
Cote’s mural centers Indigenous worldviews and Treaty teachings, using the Seven Grandfather Teachings as a guiding framework. Each teaching is represented by an animal — including the turtle for truth, raven for honesty and bison for respect — while an Anishnaabe moccasin honors the Moccasin Identifier Project and the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation. A wampum strand in the design symbolizes an invitation to walk together across territory, and the red hand pays tribute to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls and Two-Spirit People (MMIWG2S+).
The unveiling began with a traditional drumming ceremony led by Elder Eric Flett, followed by smudging led by Philip Cote. UFCW Canada representatives, Indigenous partners and community members gathered to reflect on the mural’s themes of healing, learning and unity. UFCW Canada President Shawn Haggarty shared remarks about the personal impact of visiting the artist’s studio and the lessons learned through the collaboration.
Artist Philip Cote described the work as an act of cultural revival and healing: “I hope it heals the viewer and stirs something good in them… It’s about breaking down negative narratives and opening up our true selves, bringing culture into the open.” Carolyn King, founder of Moccasin Identifier, emphasized the mural’s role as a teaching tool that makes Indigenous presence and Treaty responsibility visible in public and workplace spaces.
By partnering on this mural, Moccasin Identifier and UFCW Canada aim to create an accessible site for reflection, education and ongoing conversation about Treaty responsibilities, Indigenous resurgence and reconciliation in the workplace and community. Read more here.