Cranbrook

History Thesis (Ph.D.)--Simon Fraser University, 2002.

RCAP 60 contains files from the sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at the West Ballroom, Inn of the South, Cranbrook, British Columbia. This sitting of the Commission contains presentations including a variety of First Nations politicians, a veterans organization, the United Church, and individuals. Each presentation can be viewed individually on this site.

File contains a presentation by Cathy Rutherford. Rutherford discusses her observations as the foster parent of 16 Aboriginal children and 10 white children. Following the presentation Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand thank her for sharing her views.

File contains a presentation by Chief Paul Sam. Chief Sam comments on the preceding presentations of Cathy Rutherford, and the two Roman Catholic Peace and Development Group presenters. Following this Sam invites the Commissioners to come in six months time and take in an Aboriginal fastball tournament. Following the Chief's remarks Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand discuss this with him.

File contains a presentation by Chief Paul Sam, Shuswap Indian Band. Sam discusses the struggle for Aboriginal self-governance in Canada and his thoughts on the recently defeated Charlottetown Accord, as well as the problems he sees as being inherent in the system.

File contains a presentation by Chief Raymond Abraham. Abraham discusses his views on cultural reclamation and restoration, and self-governance issues.

File contains a presentation by Irene Willard, a 21 year old who was a foster child. Willard discusses some of the problems with Social Services and Foster Care that she encountered in her life, including being placed in a prejudiced household, and not even knowing she was a Status person until age 19. Following the presentation the Commissioners thank her, and then Chief Agnes McCoy makes closing remarks to end the Commissions sitting for the day.

File contains a presentation by Lexine Phillips, Ktunaxa/Kinbasket Tribal Council, Land and Resources Department. Phillips discusses Constitutional issues, particularly with reference to self-governance and the "no" vote in the nationwide Charlottetown Accord referendum. Phillips then makes a series of recommendations to the Commission with respect to land rights, assistance, education, and associated economic concerns.

File contains a presentation by Sophie Pierre, Ktunaxa/Kinbasket Tribal Council. Pierre discusses a variety of issues in a general fashion on behalf of the Tribal Council including: justice concerns, housing and capital programs, the Council's wellness program, economic development, and fiscal arrangements in existence between the Tribal Councils and the federal government.

File contains a presentation by Frank Sam, Kutnaxa/Kinbasket Veterans. Sam presents on his own experiences as a veteran, his reasons for enlisting, and the ill treatment he received upon his return to Canada. Following the presentation are comments by Commissioner Phillips, and by preceding presenter Wilfred Jacobs on the plight of Aboriginal war veterans.

File contains a presentation by Leo Williams, St. Mary's Indian Band. Williams discusses his personal experiences as a veteran, and his thoughts on the importance of language and culture to people. Following his presentation Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand thank Williams for his remarks.

File contains a presentation by Margaret Teneese, of the Shuswap Indian Band. Teneese discusses some of the problems faced by people in her Band, primarily in the social sphere. She discusses concerns with sexual abuse, the justice system, and the need to return to traditional culture and language. Following the presentation Commissioner for the day Lexine Phillips thanks Teneese for her thoughts.

File contains a presentation by Paul Petrie focusing on the history myths relating to Columbus discovering North America and that children learn Euro-centric history, not true Canadian history. He also mentions that talented Aboriginal musicians in Canada need financial support to further their careers.

File contains a presentation by the Rev. Ken Forrester of the Roman Catholic Church Development and Peace Group. Forrester discusses some of his organizations views on issues like reconciliation, justice, solidarity, and the fight against racism and discrimination. Following the remarks Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand thank Forrester for his thoughts.