Ancestral human remains have been discovered during excavation work for a proposed parking lot at Ontario Power Generation’s (OPG) new headquarters on Colonel Sam Drive in Oshawa—sparking outrage and grief from four First Nations communities.
The Mississaugas of Scugog Island, Curve Lake, Hiawatha, and Alderville First Nations confirmed the discovery beneath the site, which lies along the historic Scugog Carrying Place—a well-known Indigenous cultural route with deep ancestral significance. Leaders say the excavation proceeded without a proper archaeological assessment or adherence to the Ontario Heritage Act.
“This burial site has been desecrated, and our communities are grieving,” said Mississaugas of Scugog Island Chief Kelly LaRocca, joined by Chiefs Keith Knott (Curve Lake), Laurie Carr (Hiawatha), and Taynar Simpson (Alderville), in a powerful joint statement. “We believe there is a high probability that additional ancestors’ remains will be found at this site.”
The chiefs say OPG and its contractor failed to consult cultural heritage protocols or publicly share their Cultural Heritage Identification and Evaluation policies, which are required under the Ontario Heritage Act. Despite previous warnings, they claim no archaeological surveys were conducted before the digging began. The site, they note, is marked by a City of Oshawa plaque commemorating the Scugog Carrying Place, installed a decade ago in collaboration with Indigenous representatives.
Remains were reportedly found within large piles of excavated soil, which intensified concerns that the site’s cultural and spiritual integrity had been gravely violated. The Office of the Chief Coroner of Ontario has since stepped in to ensure a lawful and culturally respectful investigation is carried out, in partnership with Elders, archaeologists, and community members.
In response to the discovery, public access to the site has been restricted. First Nations leaders are now demanding that proper protocols be implemented not only at this location, but at other culturally sensitive sites throughout the region.
“This land was not a blank space before European contact—it was full of law, life, and ceremony,” the statement read. “Our ancestors deserve the dignity and honour we would offer to any deceased individuals.”
Community leaders are urging the public and media to respect the solemn nature of the discovery and allow time for mourning, reflection, and proper cultural observances.