Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples 75: Opening Prayer and Historical Account by Commissioner of the Day Daniel Vachon

File contains an opening prayer for the sitting of the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples at Sept Iles, Quebec, on November 19, 1992 (translated into English from the original French), followed by a historical account of the community provided by Commissioner of the day and President of the Elders, Montagnais Nation, Daniel Vachon. Vachon discusses the history of the Montagnais community at Sept-Iles, the problems it has faced since the application of the Indian Act to it, the attempted forced relocation and resistance of the Montagnais people, the development of industries and ghettoizing of the Montagnais people without their input or consent, and related issues. Vachon discusses his own life as a Chief of his people in the 1970s, and his desire to promote peace and harmony among all peoples. Vachon also discusses the importance of preserving and enhancing the Montagnais language and culture, a process he is personally invested in. Following his presentation Commissioner Dussault thanks him for his contribution.