Toronto

File contains a presentation by Joe Miskokomon, Grand Chief, Union of Ontario Indians. Miskokomon delivers a presentation on behalf of his organization that deals with the challenges facing its members: namely, self-governance, overcoming divisions between Aboriginal peoples, the struggle for women's equality, urban issues, and others. Miskomon states that he views self-governance primarily as a question of jurisdiction, and that jurisdictional issues must be addressed. Following the presentation are comments and a discussion between Commissioners Dussault, Erasmus, Robinson and Miskomon.

File contains a presentation by Joe Sanford. Sanford discusses his life as a Non-Status Indian and his thoughts that he has been discriminated against by the Indian Act, and Bill C-31. Sanford asks who has the jurisdiction to define people. Following his presentation Commissioners Sillet, Wilson, and Blakeney discuss this with him.

This file contains a presentation by John MIller, Jeannette Assinewai, Marjorie Mishihinijima and Sarah Bondy whose organizations works in the best interests of disabled Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal persons. Both groups deal with "discriminating legislation and policies which limit access to support offered to Aboriginal communities with developmental handicaps." Also discussed are findings from a Round Table on Aboriginal persons with disabilities held in early 1993. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

File contains a presentation by John Moore. Moore, a Cree man from the James Bay area, discusses the significance of the Treaties and what he would like to see in the future for Aboriginal people in Canada. Following the presentation Commissioners Robinson, Chartrand, and Blakeney discuss some of the issues raised with Moore.

File contains a presentation by Joseph Sagutch. Sagutch discusses his artistic contribution to the Commission in designing its offical logo. Sagutch goes over the cultural significance of the different aspects of the logo in his own view as designer.

This file contains a presentation by Joy Fontaine, Todd Ducharme, Jonathan Rudin and Cliff Summers that first gives a brief history of their organization, now serving 70,000 Aboriginal residents in Toronto, Ontario. Legal programs provided are the Native Criminal, Family and Young Offender Courtworker program, the Native Inmate Liaison program and the Aboriginal Justice Counsellor Training Program.

File contains a presentation by Katherine Fournier, United Church Native Solidarity Circle. Fournier discusses her organizations views on issues facing Aboriginal people including the need to educate non-Aboriginal people about the history of injustice towards their counterparts, the neccessity for the Federal government to deal with land claims and self-governance issues despite the defeat of the Charlottetown Accord via referendum, and that groups like the Solidarity circle can be supportive but not set the agenda: in their view that is something Aboriginal people must do themselves.

File contains a presentation by Keith Gordon, a Kahnawake Mohawk living in Toronto. His presentation focuses on four points: Canada must exhibit a willingness to be bound by the agreements it vociferously negotiates; Canada must acknowledge through the negotiation process the specific entitlements of Aboriginal peoples and their governments; governments must promote legitimacy to eliminate stereotyping; and all people must utilize the opportunity to promote the evolution of standards.

File contains a presentation by LaShelle Brant of the First Peoples Fund of Toronto. Brant discusses her organization's origins and its accomplishments to date. The fund is intended to provide credit for Aboriginal entrepreneurs. Following the presentation is a discussion between Brant and Commissioners Blakeney and Wilson on business development issues.

File contains a presentation by Lorraine Land, Harry Kitts, of Citizens for Public Justice. Land and Kitts discuss their organizations recently released book entitled "Nation to Nation, Aboriginal Sovereignty and the Future of Canada." Land describes how the book is pertinent to the Commission in attempting to "look at the challenges of arising from discord and mistrust between our peoples toward a relationship that is based more on reconciliation and respect for one another."

File contains a presentation by Marc Leclair, Spokesperson, Metis National Council. Leclair discusses his organizations participation in the 1992 Canadian Constitutional talks, and its efforts to have the federal responsibility for Metis people recognized alongside the provincial premiers. Leclair also discusses his organizations efforts to form a central registry of descendent's of the historic Metis nation, land and resource concerns, self-governance, and his views on his organization's relations with the Commission and its mandate.

This file contains a presentation by Marie Mumford, Sandra Laronde and Elaine Bomberry relating to Aboriginal people in Canada involved in the arts and culture. A number of Aboriginal organizations and schools involved in art, dance, theater and music exist in Canada and most could benefit from government funding. Some students who cannot afford to pay tuition are sometimes funded by their First Nations or through family and relatives, but the presenters feel that Aboriginal art and culture would thrive if more financial assistance was available for students.

This file contains a presentation by Mark LaForme relating to his experiences in negotiations with First Nations, Ontario and the federal governments in the area of self-government. He refers to not the overall governance of a community, but with specific matters such as policing agreements for First Nations, and joint stewardship of resources immediately adjacent to First Nations communities. The First Nations negotiations that LaForme has been involved with look for practical, realistic solutions to problems that face Aboriginal people every day.

This file consists of a presentation by Mark Taylor describing his organization's efforts in assisting Aboriginal persons affected by substance abuse. Services offered include a toll-free information number about alcohol and drug abuse, and public information brochures translated into Cree. The organization is also co-hosting the Fifth Annual Conference on the Reduction of Drug Related Harm, a major international conference. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

The file contains a presentation by Mary Lou Fox. Fox, an Ojibwa Elder from the West Bay First Nation, discusses residential schools impact and inter-generational legacy on communities, language issues and their relation to identity; the lack of educational assistance and direction needed for community level language instruction, a cross-Canada Elder's conference on language issues to be held at Manitoulin Island, the need for full time interpreters in some hospitals, and access to justice services in Aboriginal languages.

File contains a presentation by Maxine Noel. Noel, a professional artist, discusses the difficulties for female Aboriginal artists, and lauds the Canadian Native Arts Foundation for its endeavours and assistance to artists. Following the presentation are comments by Commissioners Erasmus, Dussault, and Chartrand for Noel. Following this are brief remarks by John Kim Bell on behalf of the Canadian Native Arts Foundation.

File contains a presentation by Michael Cheena and Andy Rickard. Cheena discusses the Constitution, self-governance, and inherent rights. Following the presentation is a discussion between Cheena and Commissioners Dussault and Blakeney on the issues raised.

This file contains a presentation by Michelle Swenarchuk that describes her organization as both an environmental group and a legal aid clinic under the Ontario Legal Aid Plan. She states there is a history of misuse of Aboriginal lands for dumping waste, which may pose serious health issues for those Aboriginals living near these dumping sites. The speaker discusses the potential negative impact of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) on Aboriginal lands and Aboriginal government. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

This file consists of a presentation by Monte Hummel relating to conservation objectives in Canada. The World Wildlife Fund of Canada (WWF) believes that government policies regarding parks and protected areas must recognize the moral legitimacy and the legal reality of Aboriginal title, self-government, treaty rights and outstanding land claims. Following the presentation are brief remarks by Rene Dussault, Co-Chair.

File contains a presentation by Ovide Mercredi, National Chief, Assembly of First Nations. Mercredi discusses his view of the Royal Commission and its goals, his organizations participation in Constitutional talks, and the importance of self-governance and self-determination to Aboriginal peoples. Following the presentation is a discussion between Mercredi and Commissioners Erasmus, Sillet, Wilson, Dussault and Blakeney.

This file contains a presentation by Patrick J. Lavelle, Robert Campbell and Steven Christianson that focuses on their organization's attempts to bridge the gap economically between the Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal communities in Canada. The presenters call for the formation of an Aboriginal development bank, and for the creation of an education foundation to assist young Aboriginals to remain in high school and to consider careers in business or as entrepreneurs.

File contains a presentation by Paul Fritts. Fritts, a Mohawk, and a lawyer, discusses economic issues with particular respect to Status Indian peoples. Included in his presentation are his views on the Indian Act as it pertains to economic matters, and problems attracting investment. Following the presentation are some comments by Commissioners Blakeney and Wilson.

File contains a presentation by Peter Cooke. Cooke, an Iroquois artist, discusses the history of the Six Nations Confederacy and his hometown of Brantford, Ontario with reference to the overall history of Canada. Cooke discusses land use and his people's philosophy regarding it for both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal peoples. Following the presentation Commissioners Wilson and Sillet thank him for his presentation.

This file contains a presentation by Philip Goulais relating to the mandate of the Indian Commission of Ontario: To provide a forum for the negotiation of Aboriginal land claims and self-government; and to assist in the resolution of any other issue of mutual concern to Canada or the First Nations in the Province of Ontario. A question-and-answer session with the Commissioners follows the presentation.

This file contains a presentation by Phyllis Fisher relating to the use of violence towards Canada's First Peoples, historical and present day. The Canadian Friends Service Committee, a Quakers committee, have previously assisted the Innu in Labrador, the Lubicon in Alberta and were present at the Oka Crisis. The presenters make numerous recommendations, including the establishment of an environmental process that will adequately protect the land, environment and wildlife; and that public policy and funding must give preference to renewable resource development over non-renewable resources.

File contains a presentation by Randy Tindale, Gabriel Dumont Non-Profit Homes. Tindale discusses the composition of his organization, its structure and mandate. He then goes on to relate difficulties it has experienced with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, and what he describes as a minority of government bureaucrats with prejudicial attitudes towards Aboriginal organizations. Tindale reccomends that the federal government appoint an ombudsman to look into such concerns.

File contains a presentation by Renee K. Abram, Coordinator of the Ontario Literacy Coalition. Abram discusses the history of her organization and "the healing that is taking place in the communities at this time in the form of Native literacy programs." Following the presentation is a discussion between Abram and Commissioners Dussault, Wilson, and Blakeney on literacy issues.

This file contains a presentation by Rev. Dr. Raymond Hodgson and Rev. Peter Hemel. Their organization is a national ecumenical coalition, one of 12 national coalitions of the major Christian churches in Canada. The Taskforce assists the members in implementing policies adopted by the churches in the areas of corporate, social and environmental responsibility. For example, the Taskforce worked with the Nisga'a relating to a mine built in Alice Arm, British Columbia.

This file contains a presentation by Rix Rogers relating to his experiences traveling to a number of rural and remote First Nations in Canada and speaking with Aboriginal leaders about child welfare and family violence. People cannot heal themselves when they live in a threatening environment, so creating a new social climate is essential before dealing with patterns of violence. Rogers states that if there is to be a restoration of the full richness of Aboriginal culture, it likely will occur because of the efforts of women.

File contains a presentation by RMP (Ron Momogeeshick Peters), an Ojibwa man, relates his personal life story including relationship difficulties and the struggles he has faced in his life.

File contains a presentation by Ron George, President of the Native Council of Canada. George discusses the situation of his constituency (non-status and Metis people of Canada) at length, and also discusses his views on Status Indians and the government's dealings with them. Georges presentation covers a wide range of topics including self-governance as it pertains to off-reserve populations, and Canadian Constitutional issues.

File contains a presentation by Rosemarie Kuptana, President, Inuit Tapirisat of Canada. Kuptana discusses the Royal Commission and her organizations hopes for it, as well as some structural concerns they have with it related to incorporating Inuit perspectives. Kuptana discusses the Inuit's experiences with land claims and modern treaty processes, and tells the Commission that there is much that can be learned from it.

File contains a presentation by Rosemarie Moffit. Moffit discusses identity issues of a personal and collective nature, and then describes some Ojibway spiritual beliefs and how she feels they are relevant to dealing with the problem of drug and alcohol abuse. Following the presentation are comments by the assembled Commissioners and a discussion between Moffit and Commissioner Chartrand on issues of mixed-background, Metis, and Non-Status identity designations as they apply in Ontario.

This file contains a presentation by Sam Horton whose organization recently acknowledged that "Ontario Hydro is really a company which failed to respect the Aboriginal people as individuals and nations with a proud history that were inhabitants of this land since time immemorial." Horton states that the presentation is more a status report on Ontario Hydro's experiences in working with Aboriginal people in Ontario.

File contains a presentation by Sharon McIvor, Spokesperson, Native Women's Association of Canada. McIvor gives an overview of the history and condition of Aboriginal women in Canada, who at the time of the Commission made up 52% of the Aboriginal population.

File contains a presentation by Susan Beaver, President of Two Spirited People of the First Nations. Beaver discusses her organization's origins and history, including how and why it changed its name in 1991 from "Gays and Lesbians of the First Nations" to "Two Spirited People of the First Nations." Following the presentation are comments by the Commissioners and a discussion between Commissioner Blakeney and Beaver on ideas of self-governance and how they are viewed by Two-Spirited People of the First Nations.

File contains a presentation by Tamara Bell, Proprietor, Pow Wow Native Arts and Fashion Centre. Bell is a Haida woman and entrepreneur who presents on economic issues. Bell discusses the need for an economic base, the ability of businesses to "bridge gaps and cut through cultural and social boundaries," and claims "Economic independence has a distinct advantage in helping both the Native and Non-Native community." Following the presentation Bell answers questions from Commissioners Dussault and Chartrand on the issues raised in her presentation.

File contains a presentation by Ted Harlson. Harlson discusses individual rights and why he thinks they must be absolute for a successful application of self-governance to Aboriginal peoples. Harlson presents a philosophical paper outlining why individual rights are important, and what he views as the dangers of collectivism. Following the presentation are comments by Commissioners Chartrand and Dussault.

This file consists of a presentation by seven members of the Southern Ontario Metis and Non Status Indian Association: Tony Belcourt, Audrey Mayes, Kim Coyle, Dave Jacobs, Paul Day, Trevor Minnie and Christi Belcourt. Their presentation discusses the "inequality being subjected on the majority of Aboriginal people in Canada, the Metis and off-reserve Indian population." The presentation focuses on the Indian Act and other government policies.

File contains a presentation by Thomas Loft. Loft, presenting as an individual, discusses his views on the Commission and its work. Loft argues that the problems facing Aboriginal peoples have been over studied in the past with few concrete results, and analyzes a speech by former Prime Minister Trudeau with regard to First Nations issues, and particularly with reference to citizenship issues. Loft also emphasizes the need for the Commission to talk to individual Aboriginal people, rather than just political or organization officials.

File contains a presentation by Tom Wesley, Coach, First Nations Running Club. Wesley, an Ojibway from the Lac Sioux Reserve in Northern Ontario, gives a brief history of Native running, and a brief history of the First Nations Running Club. Following the presentation are remarks by Commissioner Chartrand and Dussault on its contents and the closing of the day's proceedings.

File contains a presentation by Tony Belcourt, Constitutional Advisor, Metis National Council. Belcourt adds some remarks to the previous presentation by Marc Leclair, spokesperson for the Metis National Council. Belcourt asks the Commission to act on behalf of Metis peoples to let their history be known to Canadians, and to have them included as equals under the designation of Aboriginal peoples. Belcourt points out that often Metis people have been disregarded and Aboriginal used as a blanket term for First Nations and Inuit people in general parlance.

File contains a presentation by Vern Douglas and Ken Richard of Native Child and Family Services. Douglas discusses the history of the organization in Toronto, and how it came about as a grassroots organization amongst Aboriginal people who had been victims of the Child Welfare system. He discusses the mandate of the organization and the composition of its board which is balanced between several Aboriginal groups. Ken Richards discusses the services the organization provides for Aboriginal children and families, and some of the data involved.

File contains a presentation by Vern Harper. Harper discusses some of his views on Aboriginal people's place within Canadian society, and on artistic and cultural concerns. Harper also relates some of his own personal life story.

This file consists of a presentation by Wally McKay focusing on policing by First Nations men and women on reserves. McKay describes traditional Aboriginal policing models being based on peacemaking and peacekeeping.

This file contains a transcript of a part of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Vancouver, British Columbia. This part includes presentation for the National Aboriginal Housing Committee by Matthew Stewart and Robin Henry concerning rural and urban housing for the Aboriginal community. Questions from the assembled Commissioners follow the presentation.

File contains a round table discussion on urban Aboriginal concerns with Bruce Yacatto, Isabel Bassett, Michael Bliss, Janet Maher, Susan Eng, Colleen Wassegijig, and Commissioners Blakeney, Harper, Sillet, and Wilson. The discussion incorporates a wide variety of issue relating to urban Aboriginal peoples including education, social services, community policing, and governance issues.

This file contains a part of a transcript of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at The Fern Resort, Orillia, Ontario. This part includes a presentation by Jack Mudde and Barb McCahery at the Round Table discussion on Relationship issues with "ourselves, our families and our community."

This file contains a part of a transcript of a portion of a sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at The Fern Resort, Orillia, Ontario. This part includes a presentation by Merle Assance-Beedie at the Round Table discussion on Relationship issues with "ourselves, our families and our community."

Social Work Thesis (Ph.D.)--University of Toronto, 2013.